Antifungal activity of a gel containing Thymus vulgaris essential oil against Candida species commonly involved in vulvovaginal candidosis

摘要

Previous reports of the antifungal potential of Thymus vulgaris L. (Lamiaceae) essential oil against Candida spp. suggests that this natural product may play a valuable role in the management of vulvovaginal candidosis. A polycarbophil-based gel, containing Thymus vulgaris essential oil (1 %, w/w), was formulated and its antifungal activity was evaluated in vitro against four strains of Candida commonly involved in vulvovaginal candidosis. Results show that the gel allows the essential oil to maintain its activity at pH values near those observed in the healthy vagina. Also, the lack of significant antifungal activity of the polycarbophil-based gel seems to be advantageous when considering its use as a placebo formulation. Further in vivo studies are needed in order to evaluate the potential of this drug formulation in the management of vulvovaginal candidosis.