Garlic and Clove Essential Oils as Potential Topical Antifungal Agents Phytochemistry, Mechanisms, Formulation Strategies and Nano-Enabled Delivery

Superficial fungal infections and reduced susceptibility to established antifungal drugs have encouraged investigation of plant-derived topical agents. Garlic (Allium sativum) and clove (Syzygium aromaticum) contain chemically distinct constituents with experimental antifungal activity. This narrative review examines their phytochemistry, proposed mechanisms, formulation strategies, combination potential and dermal safety. Evidence concerning purified allicin and garlic extracts is distinguished from evidence concerning distilled garlic essential oil, which is dominated by allyl polysulfides. Clove oil is typically rich in eugenol and has shown in-vitro activity against Candida, Aspergillus and dermatophytes. Proposed actions include membrane perturbation and disruption of cellular enzymes and redox processes, although their contribution depends on the preparation and test organism.