Researchers have found that a polyphenol-rich extract from the Cistus salviifolius shrub displays fungicidal activity against common dermatophytes in laboratory studies.
Key facts
- •The study was a collaboration between Miguel Hernández University of Elche, the University of Namur, and the University of Coimbra.
- •The extract is composed primarily of polyphenols, including flavonoids and tannins.
- •Cistus salviifolius is a resilient evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean Basin.
- •The extract showed no toxicity to primary human keratinocytes under the tested laboratory conditions.
- •Researchers have not yet tested the extract's safety or efficacy in human clinical trials.
A study conducted by researchers from Miguel Hernández University of Elche and partners in Belgium and Portugal has identified that an extract from the Mediterranean rockrose, Cistus salviifolius, can combat dermatophytes. These fungi are responsible for superficial infections of the skin, hair, and nails, including various types of ringworm. The findings, published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, suggest the extract disrupts fungal cellular structures.
Fungal Sensitivity and Cellular Impact
The research team tested the polyphenol-rich extract against several fungal species. They found that dermatophytes, specifically Trichophyton rubrum and Microsporum canis, were highly sensitive to the treatment. Electron microscopy revealed that the extract causes severe cellular damage, including membrane detachment, disorganization of the cell interior, and the formation of large vacuoles, leading to cell rupture. The extract did not show antifungal activity against yeasts such as Candida albicans at the tested concentrations.
Laboratory Testing on Human Epidermis
In tests using reconstructed human epidermis, the extract reduced fungal load and tissue invasion when applied after infection. It also helped preserve the epidermal barrier and lowered inflammatory responses without reducing the viability of keratinocytes, the primary cells of the outer skin layer. Additionally, the extract demonstrated antioxidant properties and the ability to inhibit enzymes that degrade skin components like collagen and elastin.
Future Research Directions
While the results are promising, researchers emphasize that the extract has not been tested as a treatment in humans and should not be applied directly to the skin. Future work will focus on developing controlled topical formulations, such as creams or hydrogels, and evaluating the extract's efficacy and safety in animal models before proceeding to clinical trials.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by Phys.org.
