Anti-Candidal Effect of Shallot against Chronic Candidiasis

Shallots are an important part of the diet of many populations and there is long-held belief in their health enhancing properties. The aim of this study was to determine anti-candidal activity of shallot against chronic candidiasis agents. Alcoholic and aqueous extracts of shallot (Allium hirtifolium) were tested for in vitro antifungal activities against 33 candida species isolated from patient with chronic candidiasis who were referred to Mirza-Kochak-Khan and Lolagar Hospitals. Minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined using broth microdilution method. Allium hirtifoliumshowed antifungal activity against all the candida species tested and anti-candidal activity of the alcoholic extract was very better than aqueous extract. The results indicate that crude juice of shallot has anti-candidal activity and might be promising in treatment of candidiasis.