Studying The Effects of (Thyme, Sage, And Marjoram) Essential Oils Against Biofilm Produce by Candida albicans Isolated From Urinary Tract And Vaginal Infections

Abstract

Background: The urinary and reproductive tracts are among the most vulnerable organs in the human body to microbial infections due to their mucous membranes and the fact that they are a moist area, making them a reservoir for fungi in particular. They may be opportunistic, infecting those with weak immunity and those suffering from chronic diseases. These yeasts may acquire resistance to antifungal treatments. Therefore, the global trend has become towards discovering therapeutic alternatives to limit their growth and reduce side effects. Objective: The study aimed to test the effectiveness of plant oils (sage oil, thyme oil, and marjoram oil) in reducing the growth of fungi resistant to manufactured antifungals and in inhibiting the growth of biofilms, and to consider them as alternative treatments to manufactured treatment. Methods: The isolates were collected from the Maternity and Child Hospital in Maysan and identified by chromogenic agar to confirm them. After that, the antifungal test was performed, and the efficiency of the vegetable oils was tested through the disc diffusion method, followed by the biofilm inhibition test.Results: The results for marjoram oil and sage oil were notable, with inhibition diameters of 19.72 mm and 11.67 mm, respectively. In contrast, thyme oil showed no results. Regarding the biofilm test, marjoram oil achieved the highest percentage at 24.69%. Sage oil followed, which had the highest inhibition of C. albicans at 14.25%. Then, it was found that thyme oil had the highest inhibition of C. albicans at 12.44%. Conclusion: Marjoram and sage oils have shown effective results against Candida albicans isolates from both urine and vagina, indicating their potential as antifungal agents. Further clinical trials are recommended, along with their application in topical or oral forms. Thyme oil, despite its efficacy, did not affect biofilms, This is attributed to the oil's sensitivity to heat and light, which may alter its chemical and therapeutic properties.