The Effect of Hydroalcoholic Extract of <i>Artemisia dracunculus</i> L. (Tarragon) on <i>Candida albicans</i> Infection in Mice

Abstract

Background: Candida albicans, an opportunistic pathogen, causes disseminated infection in immunocompromised host. Artemisia dracunculus L. (Tarragon) is a plant used as meal and remedy for a long time, and possesses some medicinal characteristics. Its pharmacological properties have been shown in a large number of in-vitro and in-vivo studies. Objectives: Regarding the antifungal activity, widespread secondary metabolites, and proved biological activities of tarragon, this study aimed to investigate the effect of hydroalcoholic extract of A. dracunculus L. on C. albicans infection in mice. Methods: The mice were divided into six groups including a normal control group, a placebo group, and three treatment groups receiving 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg doses of hydroalcoholic extract via intraperitoneal (ip) injection followed by inoculation with C. albicans. A control+ group, inoculated only with C. albicans, was also employed. After all treatments, the mice were killed by cervical decapitation and the concentration of C. albicans was measured in the liver and kidney homogenates. Results: The results showed a significant decrease in C. albicans concentration in the liver and kidney homogenates in the treatment groups (P < 0.05). Conclusions: It can be concluded that hydroalcoholic extract of A. dracunculus L. improves C. albicans infection in mice as a result of possessing antifungal effects.