Oral Medicine: Antifungal Activity of Glycyrrhiza glabra Against Oral candidiasis - An In-Vitro Study
Abstract
This research explores the antifungal properties of Glycyrrhiza glabra (liquorice) root extract in relation to Candida albicans and various other Candida species, which are prevalent causative agents of Oral candidiasis, an opportunistic infection that presents considerable difficulties for individuals with compromised immune systems. In light of the increasing apprehension surrounding antifungal resistance and the constraints of current antifungal medications, this study assesses the effectiveness of G. glabra as a natural treatment option. The antifungal efficacy of the extract was evaluated through disc diffusion, well diffusion, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) assays. The findings revealed a notable dose-dependent antifungal efficacy, with C. albicans exhibiting the greatest level of susceptibility.(Warnakulasuriya et al. 2021) The MIC and MFC values varied from 12.5 mg/mL to 25 mg/mL for C. albicans, while for C. krusei, they ranged from 50 mg/mL to 100 mg/mL, respectively. When compared to fluconazole, it was observed that the extract necessitated greater concentrations; however, it demonstrated reliable effectiveness across every species evaluated. Analysis of cytotoxicity in human oral keratinocytes revealed a moderate level of cytotoxicity at elevated concentrations, while maintaining a safe profile at therapeutic dosages. The results underscore G. glabra as a compelling option for natural antifungal treatments and advocate for its inclusion in oral hygiene products. (Wang et al. 2014) Additional in vivo investigations and safety assessments are crucial to confirm its clinical relevance (Davies, Berger, and Rubinsztein 2006) .
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