SUSCEPTIBILITY OF FUNGI PATHOGENS ASSOCIATED WITH SKIN DISEASES TO ALMOND TREE LEAF EXTRACT (TERMINALIA CATAPPA LIN)
Abstract
Abstract
Fungal skin diseases caused by Candida albicans, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, and Aspergillus niger are common global health concerns, especially in tropical climates. This study evaluates the antifungal activity of ethanolic extracts from Terminalia catappa Lin leaves, a medicinal plant traditionally used for skin ailments. Phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of bioactive compounds such as flavonoids and tannins. In vitro susceptibility testing using the agar well diffusion method assessed effects of different extract concentrations on clinical fungal isolates with zones of inhibition ranges between 7mm to 17mm and control drugs (Clotrimazole and Ketoconazole) with zones between 20mm to 27mm. Minimum inhibition concentration and minimum fungicidal concentration confirms the inhibitory effects of the extract on clinical fungal isolates. The findings demonstrate the potential of Terminalia catappa Lin as a natural antifungal agent, providing a foundation for developing affordable, plant-based treatments for skin diseases. This research supports the traditional use of Terminalia catappa Lin and contributes to the search for effective herbal alternatives amid rising drug resistance.
Keywords: Terminalia catappa Lin, skin diseases, phytochemicals test, Minimum inhibition concentration, minimum fungicidal concentration.
Full-Text Access Notice
In accordance with the NERD Policy on promoting peer-reviewed publication, public access to the full text of a project, thesis or dissertation is restricted for three years, allowing the author and supervisors sufficient time to pursue peer-reviewed publication.
During this period, researchers with legitimate academic or research purposes may request authorisation directly from the author to enable NERD to release the indexed full texts of the work using the form below.