Investigation of antifungal activity of methanol and aqueous extracts of walnut (Juglans regia) leaves and peel against candida species

Background and Aim: The occurrence of fungal species resistant to antifungal drugs and also their numerous side-effects have persuaded researchers to work on new therapeutic methods. The aim of the present study was to assess anticandidal activities of aqueous and methanol. extracts of walnut fruit, peel, and leaves on different Candida species. Materials and Methods: In the current study, antifungal effects of aqueous and methanolic extracts of fruit peel and leaves of walnut (Juglans regia) against four Candida species (Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, Candida tropicalis and Candida krusei) were examined using broth microdilution method. The tested fungal species were associated with different concentrations of the plant extracts , and then, the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimum Fungicidal Concentration (MFC) of these extracts were obtained for tested Candida species. Results: Both aqueous and methanol extracts of fruit peel .and leaves of walnut showed antifungal effects against candida species. The MICS of fluconazole, clotimazole, nystatin and aqueous and methanol extracts of fruit peel and leaves of walnut for different Candida species were 6.25-50, 3.125-25, 12.5-50 and 3.125- 25 mg/ml, respectively. MFCs of methanol extracts of fruit peel and leaves of walnut were 6.25-25 mg/ml. The aqueous extracts of fruit peel and leaves of walnut were without fungicidal effects only through inhibiting fungal growth. Conclusion: It was found that methanol extracts of walnut leaves and peels contain compounds with thrapeutic potential against candida species and it looks promising that some effective antifungal agents with minimal side effects from walnut leaves and pills extract can be obtained in the future.