Evaluation of Antifungal Activity and Skin Toxicity of Piliostigma thonningii in Female Rabbits

The recurrent nature of dermatophytes, combined with the development of resistance to antifungal agents, makes the management of these infections more difficult. The search for plant-based compounds that can effectively combat dermatoses offers an ideal alternative in the African cultural context.

Aims: Fungal infections, such as those caused by Candida albicans, Aspergillus fumigatus, and Trichophyton mentagrophytes, pose an increasing challenge to public health. This study explores the antifungal efficacy and cutaneous toxicity of the hydroethanolic extract of Piliostigma thonningii, a medicinal plant used in Africa.

Methodology: The methodology involved two main components. First, antifungal tests were conducted to evaluate the activity of the extract against the three fungal species using the double dilution method in inclined tubes. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) and minimum fungicidal concentrations (MFC) were determined. Second, a cutaneous toxicity assessment was performed by applying the extract to the skin of female rabbits to observe reactions according to a modified Draize scale.

Results: The results showed that the Piliostigma thonningii extract inhibits the growth of all three fungal species in a dose-dependent manner. The MFC values were 100 mg/mL for Aspergillus fumigatus and above 100 mg/mL for Candida albicans and Trichophyton mentagrophytes. Antifungal assays calculated the inhibitory concentrations necessary to ensure the survival of 50% of the microorganisms, with IC50 values of 8.2 mg/mL for Candida albicans, 10.26 mg/mL for Aspergillus fumigatus, and 16.75 mg/mL for Trichophyton mentagrophytes. Regarding skin toxicity, the results indicated that the extract is slightly irritating but not corrosive, with reversible effects within 72 hours.

Conclusion: This suggests that Piliostigma thonningii is a promising therapeutic alternative. However, further research is needed to confirm its safety and clinical efficacy.