Lavender essential oil could be used to combat the increasing incidence of infections resistant to antifungals, such as dermatological yeast infections and vaginal, according to the results of a study published in the Journal of Medical Microbiology.
In the laboratory, researchers from the University of Coimbra in Portugal tested lavender essential oil on a range of pathogenic fungi, known under the name dermatophytes, as well as on different species of Candida, responsible for dermatological and vaginal mycoses. Currently, there are relatively few types of antifungal drugs to treat infections, and those that are available often have side effects.
“In recent years, there has been a increased incidence of fungal diseases, especially in immunocompromised patients, ”explained the study authors. “Unfortunately, there is increased resistance to antifungal drugs as well. Research by our group and others has shown that essential oils can be inexpensive, effective alternatives that have minimal side effects. “
Results to be confirmed in vivo
Researchers have shown that these oils work by destroying fungal cells by damaging the cell membrane.
“Lavender essential oil has shown very potent broad spectrum antifungal activity. This is a good starting point for clinical use of the oil to manage fungal infections. Clinical trials are now needed to assess how our work in vitro translates into vivo, ”said Professor Salgueiro, author of the study.
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