Antifungal Activity of Ethanol Extracts of Ganoderma resinaceum against Vaginal Fungal Isolates
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Abstract
Reishi mushrooms, particularly Ganoderma resinaceum, contain bioactive compounds with antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. Traditionally used for longevity, they show promise in treating chronic ailments and vaginal infections. The present study investigated the antifungal activity of Ganoderma resinaceum Ethanol extract against vaginal fungal pathogens commonly associated with vaginitis. Vagina samples were obtained from 213 female patients for fungal isolation and identification. Ethanol extract of G. resinaceum was prepared and fractionated by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry analysis. The antifungal effects of varying concentrations (2–250 mg/mL) of the extract were evaluated. Also, the effect of the extract was assessed on fungal sporulation. Fungal isolates, primarily Candida albicans (41.38%), Candida glabrata (34.48%), and Candida pichia (24.14), were obtained from the vaginal samples. The results revealed that the Ethanol extract of G. resinaceum exhibited dose-dependent antifungal activity, with the highest concentration (250 mg/mL) showing significant (p < 0.05) inhibition of fungal growth. Inhibition zones for C. albicans, C. glabrata, and C. pichia were 23.33 ± 0.33, 22.00 ± 0.00, and 30.00 ± 0.00 mm, respectively. Additionally, the extract significantly reduced fungal sporulation, particularly for C. pichia, which showed the greatest reduction in spore count. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis identified active compounds such as oleic acid and β-sitosterol, likely contributing to the observed antifungal activity. The study revealed that G. resinaceum as a potential, less toxic alternative for treating vaginal fungal infections, especially those caused by Candida species. However, further clinical trials are required to validate its effectiveness and establish proper treatment guidelines.
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