SYNERGISTIC EFFECT OF TEA TREE LEAVE AND ROOT EXTRACT AGAINST TRICHOPHYTON RUBRUM

Abstract Trichophyton rubrum represented the most widespread dermatophyte with prevalence accounting 70% of dermatophytosis. The treatment for cutaneous infections caused by trichophyton spp. are imidazoles (ketoconazole (KTZ)) and triazoles (itraconazole(ITZ)). Trichopyton rubrum can develop resistance to azole after prolonged exposure to sub-inhibitory concerntration resulting to therapeutic failure and chronic infection. These problem have stimulated the search for therapeutic alternatives, including essential oils, and their potential use in combination with conventional antifungals. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the synergistic effect of tea tree leaf and root extract against Trichophyton rubrum. The phytochemical activity of tea tree leaf and root extract against Trichophyton rubrum isolate was studied. Ethanolic extraction method was used. The effect of the extract was accessed by agar diffusion method. Dilutions of 100%, 80%, 60%, 40% and 20% were made from the various extracts. When Trichophyton rubrum isolate were challenged with the various concentration of the extracts, the highest zone of inhibition of 20.21 was exhibited at 100% concentration while the lowest zone of inhibition of 8.40 was exhibited 25% concentration. The result shows that antifungal substances can be sourced from tea tree leave and root for possible development of antifungal drugs for the treatment of dermatophytic infection. Exploring synergistic effects by combining Tea tree leaf with root extract may enhance efficacy while possibly reducing the required dosage of each component. Key words: Trichophyton rubrum, essential oil, Melaleuca alternifolia, Synergism.