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Impact of Clove Oil on Biofilm Formation in Candida albicans and Its Effects on Mice with Candida Vaginitis

Summary

Clove oil, a common kitchen spice, shows promise as a treatment for vaginal yeast infections caused by Candida albicans. The oil contains eugenol, which blocks the fungus’s ability to form protective biofilms and reduces inflammation. In mouse studies, clove oil treatment decreased yeast infection symptoms and lowered inflammatory markers, suggesting it could be a safe, natural alternative to conventional antifungal drugs.

Background

Candida albicans is a prevalent pathogenic fungus that forms biofilms, complicating treatment and contributing to drug resistance. Clove oil (CEO) has demonstrated diverse pharmacological activities including antifungal properties and is FDA-certified as a dietary supplement. This study investigates CEO’s potential as an alternative therapy for candida vaginitis.

Objective

To evaluate the effects of clove oil on C. albicans biofilm formation in vitro and to assess its therapeutic efficacy in an ICR mouse model with candida vaginitis. The study also aimed to identify potential molecular targets and signaling pathways through network pharmacology.

Results

CEO inhibited C. albicans adhesion, mycelium formation, and biofilm maturation. Eugenol (81.52%) was identified as the principal active component. CEO downregulated CDC42, Ste11, Hst7, CEK1, and CPH1 genes and their corresponding proteins. In vivo, CEO reduced inflammatory cytokine levels, alleviated vaginitis symptoms, and decreased vaginal C. albicans colonies.

Conclusion

Clove oil effectively inhibits C. albicans biofilm formation through the CEK1-MAPK signaling pathway and demonstrates therapeutic efficacy against candida vaginitis in mice. These findings support CEO as a potential alternative or complementary therapy for vulvovaginal candidiasis with good safety profile.
  • Published in:Mycobiology,
  • Study Type:In vitro and In vivo Experimental Study,
  • Source: PMID: 40792184, DOI: 10.1080/12298093.2025.2537477
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