Garlic (Allium sativum) as an anti-Candida agent: a comparison of the efficacy of fresh garlic and freeze-dried extracts.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the effects of fresh and freeze-dried extracts of Allium sativum on the physiology and morphology of Candida albicans.


RESULTS
Inhibition of growth in glucose-yeast extract-peptone was measured using a multiwell plate reader. Scanning and transmission electron microscopy investigations indicated loss of structural integrity. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry of extracts was employed to separate and quantify putative inhibitory sulphur-containing components.


CONCLUSIONS
Fresh garlic extract has a greater efficacy than garlic powder extract as indicated both by its effects on morphology and inhibition of growth.


CONCLUSIONS
The ubiquitous opportunistic pathogen C. albicans is sensitive to garlic; resistance to the broad spectrum of active principles present is unlikely so that its anticandidal effects may provide an important alternative route to chemotherapy.
Lemar
K M
KM
Microbiology (BIOSI 1), Cardiff University, Cardiff, Wales, UK. Lemarkm@cf.ac.uk
Turner
M P
MP
Lloyd
D
D
D000935:Antifungal Agents / Q000494:pharmacology*; D002176:Candida albicans / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000254:growth & development / Q000648:ultrastructure; D003470:Culture Media; D005612:Freeze Drying; D005737:Garlic; D006801:Humans; D008826:Microbial Sensitivity Tests; D008854:Microscopy, Electron; D008855:Microscopy, Electron, Scanning; D010936:Plant Extracts / Q000494:pharmacology*
D000935:Antifungal Agents; D003470:Culture Media; D010936:Plant Extracts