Antifungal Activity of Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans) Flesh Extract from South Aceh Against Candida albicans on Denture Base

Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans) contains several antimicrobial and anticandidal metabolites, yet the bioactivity of its fruit flesh has received limited attention, particularly for managing denture-associated fungal infections. Candida albicans (C. Albicans) frequently colonizes acrylic denture materials and contributes to denture stomatitis, emphasizing the need for natural antifungal alternatives. This study investigated the chemical composition and antifungal potential of M. fragrans fruit flesh extract against C. albicans on acrylic denture surfaces. The extract was prepared and subjected to phytochemical screening and GC–MS profiling to identify its secondary metabolites. Antifungal activity was assessed using acrylic specimens inoculated with C. albicans for 24, 48, and 72 hours. Minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) was determined via liquid and solid dilution assays at concentrations of 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%. Biofilm inhibition was further evaluated using the crystal violet assay. GC–MS analysis revealed 9-octadecenoic acid E (25.9%) as the predominant compound. All extract concentrations (25–100%) resulted in weak biofilm formation, classified as Weak Biofilm Producer (WBP). Solid dilution tests showed complete absence of fungal colonies across all concentrations, indicating fungicidal activity with MFC ≤ 25%. At 24 hours, biofilm inhibition increased from 25.00±5.00% (25%) to 42.00±5.00% (100%), with significant differences between these concentrations (p = 0.007), while no differences were noted at later times. The 75% and 100% concentrations demonstrated inhibitory effects comparable to the positive control (p = 0.156 and p = 0.714). In conclusion, M. fragrans fruit flesh extract effectively suppresses C. albicans biofilm formation on acrylic denture surfaces.