Antifungal Activity of Curcuma longa and Azadirachta indica Extracts on Dematiaceous Fungi Isolated from Environmental Samples at Uli Community, Anambra State, Nigeria

Abstract

Aim: This research is aimed at evaluating the antifungal activity of Curcuma longa, and Azadirachta indica extracts on dematiaceous fungi isolated from environmental samples at Uli community, Anambra State, Nigeria. Methods:  Soil, rotten wood, and water samples were randomly collected from three communities at Uli, Ihiala LGA. Also, leaf of neem and rhizoids of turmeric were purchased from an agro-based farm. The samples were analyzed for the presence of dematiaceous fungi using pour plating technique. The isolates were identified based on their morphology and slide culture technique. The plant samples were dried at room temperature, and extraction was done using a Soxhlet extractor and ethanol. The phytochemical composition of the extracts was evaluated qualitatively and quantitatively using spectrophotometer. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) were determined using a broth medium and sabourod dextrose agar. Results: A total number of 10 dematiaceous fungi were isolated from the three communities. The phytochemical analysis of the plants extracts revealed the presence of flavonoids, tannins, cardiac glycosides, saponins, alkaloids, and steroids. The MIC and MFC of the turmeric extract were recorded as 0.50 mg/mL and 12.5 mg/mL, respectively. Conclusion: The study has shown that Curcuma longa ethanolic extract is more potent in tackling subcutaneous mycoses.