GC-MS Profiling and In Vitro Antifungal Efficacy of Vitellaria paradoxa Oil Against Dermatophytes and Yeasts

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The rising concern of antifungal resistance has necessitated the exploration of natural alternatives. This study investigated the in vitro antifungal efficacy of Vitellaria paradoxa oil against Candida albicans, Microsporum canis, and Trichophyton rubrum. The oil's fatty acid composition was analyzed using gas chromatography. The antifungal activity of the oil was evaluated using the agar well diffusion method, and all tests were conducted in triplicates. The results showed that oleic acid (45.56%) and stearic acid (31.91%) were the predominant components of the oil. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for all tested pathogens (Trichophyton rubrum, Candida albicans, and Microsporum canis) was 25% oil concentration. The minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) varied among species, with Trichophyton rubrum requiring 50% oil concentration, and Candida albicans and Microsporum canis requiring 100%. Statistical analysis revealed no significant difference between the antifungal efficacy of 100% V. paradoxa oil and fluconazole (p = 0.627, F = 0.276). These findings suggest that V. paradoxa oil has promising antifungal properties, warranting further clinical evaluation as a natural therapeutic alternative for fungal infections.