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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 to see if they could fight Candida albicans yeast infections. While saffron extract showed some antifungal activity, it was less powerful than the standard drug fluconazole. However, saffron was very safe and non-toxic to human cells, making it a promising natural alternative therapy worth exploring further.

Background

Candidiasis caused by Candida species is one of the most common fungal infections worldwide. The emergence of antifungal-resistant isolates and side effects of current antifungal drugs have created a need for alternative therapeutic options. Herbal medicines like Crocus sativus (saffron) offer potential alternatives due to their natural origin, lower costs, and fewer side effects.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the antifungal susceptibility and toxicity profiles of dry extract of Crocus sativus petals against clinical isolates of Candida albicans compared to fluconazole. The research also assessed the cytotoxicity of the extract on mammalian cells.

Results

The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC50) for fluconazole and C. sativus petal extract were 0.25 µg/mL and 4 µg/mL respectively. C. albicans isolates were significantly more sensitive to fluconazole than to the saffron petal extract. The extract demonstrated negligible cytotoxicity with cell viability greater than 80% at all tested dilutions.

Conclusion

The dry extract of C. sativus petals showed lower antifungal activity compared to fluconazole; however, its excellent safety profile and minimal cytotoxicity make it a potential alternative therapeutic option for candidiasis treatment. Further in vivo studies are recommended to validate these findings.
  • Published in:Advanced Biomedical Research,
  • Study Type:In Vitro Experimental Study,
  • Source: PMID: 41132222, DOI: 10.4103/abr.abr_513_24
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