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Evaluation of the Cytotoxicity and Antifungal Efficacy of Crocus sativus (saffron) Petals on Clinical Isolates of Candida albicans

Summary

Researchers tested saffron petals as a natural antifungal treatment against Candida albicans, a common fungal infection. While the saffron extract was less potent than the standard drug fluconazole, it showed promise as a safer alternative with minimal toxicity to human cells. The findings suggest saffron petals could be a cost-effective herbal option for treating fungal infections, especially as resistance to conventional antifungals increases.

Background

Candidiasis is a common fungal infection caused by Candida species with increasing reports of antifungal resistance and side effects. Crocus sativus (saffron) petals represent a cost-effective herbal alternative with fewer side effects compared to expensive stigma. This study evaluates the antifungal and toxicity profiles of saffron petal extract against clinical C. albicans isolates.

Objective

To evaluate the antifungal susceptibility and cytotoxicity profiles of dry extract of Crocus sativus petals in C. albicans isolates from patients with proven candidiasis. The study aimed to compare efficacy with fluconazole and assess safety on mammalian cells.

Results

Fluconazole showed MIC50 of 0.25 µg/mL and geometric mean of 0.19 µg/mL, while saffron petal extract showed MIC50 of 4 µg/mL and geometric mean of 5.32 µg/mL. The extract demonstrated lower antifungal activity than fluconazole with statistically significant differences. Cell viability remained above 80% at all extract dilutions, indicating negligible cytotoxicity.

Conclusion

Crocus sativus petal extract has lower antifungal activity compared to fluconazole but demonstrates acceptable efficacy and negligible cytotoxicity. The extract can be considered a potential alternative therapeutic option for treating candidiasis due to its safety profile, natural origin, and lower cost.
  • Published in:Advanced Biomedical Research,
  • Study Type:In vitro experimental study,
  • Source: PMID: 41132222
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