Antifungal activity of extracts and purified saponins from the rhizomes ofChamaecostus cuspidatusagainstCandidaandTrichophytonspecies

Aim To evaluate the antifungal activity of extracts ofChamaecostus cuspidatusagainstCandidaandTrichophytonspecies. Methods and Results Crude ethanol extracts of leaves, stems and rhizomes were prepared and evaluated for antimicrobial activity. Only the rhizomes extract (RE) showed antifungal activity but had no inhibitory effect against bacteria (Staphylococcus aureusandEscherichia coli). The RE was then submitted to liquid-liquid partition with hexane (Hex), dichloromethane, chloroform, ethyl acetate and water. The Hex fraction (Hex Fr) from the RE was found to have the best antifungal effect. Three known saponins were isolated from the Hex Fr, of which two (dioscin and aferoside A) showed good antifungal activity. In addition, Hex Fr and the two bioactive compounds had no antibacterial effect, but exhibited fungicidal activity, caused significant changes in the morphology of the fungal cells and showed anti-Candida albicansbiofilm activity. Finally, the bioactive plant products presented greater selectivity for fungal cells over normal human cells. Conclusions The rhizomes ofC. cuspidatushave bioactive saponins that function as effective antifungals againstCandidaandTrichophytonspecies, and have antibiofilm activity againstC. albicans. Significance and Impact of the Study Chamaecostus cuspidatusREs may have potential clinical application towards the management of superficial mycoses caused byCandidaandTrichophytonspecies.

Automated summary

The study evaluated the antifungal activity of Chamaecostus cuspidatus rhizome extracts against Candida and Trichophyton species. The extracts showed antifungal, fungicidal, and antibiofilm effects with greater selectivity for fungal cells. This suggests potential clinical applications in managing superficial mycoses caused by these fungal species.