Antifungal activity of selected Malaysian honeys：a comparison with Manuka honey

摘要

Objective:To evaluate four selected Malaysian honey samples from different floral sources (Gelam,Tualang,Nenas and Acacia) for their ability to inhibit the growth of fungi and yeast strains (Candida albicans, Aspergillus niger, Epidermophyton floccosum, Microsporum gypseum, Trichophyton rubrum andTrichophyton mentagrophytes). Methods: The broth microdilution method was used to assess the antifungal activity of honey against yeasts at different concentrations ranging from 0.01% to 70% (v/v). Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the honeys were determined by visual inspection and spectrophotometric assay. Minimum fungicidal concentration test was performed by further sub-culturing from the plates which showed no visible growth in theMICassay onto Sabroud dextrose agar. Results: All tested Malaysian honeys except Gelam showed antifungal activity against all species analysed, with theMIC ranging from 25% (v/v) to 50% (v/v) whileMIC of Manuka honey ranged between 21% to 53%(v/v).Candida albicans was more susceptible to honey than other species tested. Conclusions: Locally produced honeys exhibited antifungal activity which is less than or equal to that of Manuka honey. Our data showed evidence in support of the therapeutic uses of Malaysian honeys.