Biomolecular Insights Into the Antifungal Activity of <i>Allium</i> Species Constituents: From Mechanisms to Applications

Abstract

Context: This review explores the antifungal potential of Allium species, emphasizing pure compounds identified through phytochemical studies. It also analyzes the mechanisms and efficacy of Allium-derived antifungal agents within pharmaceutical, agricultural, and food science applications. Objectives: To assess the antifungal properties of major Allium species and their bioactive compounds, and to evaluate their mechanisms of action and effectiveness across pharmaceutical treatments, agricultural pathogen control, and food preservation. Data Sources: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using major scientific databases, including Web of Science, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Study Selection: Studies reporting antifungal activities of major Allium species and their isolated compounds were selected based on PRISMA guidelines. Data Extraction: Data were extracted from recent research focusing on the antifungal effects, mechanisms of action, and minimum inhibitory concentrations of sulfur compounds and saponins derived from Allium species. Results: Sulfur-containing compounds such as allicin and ajoene were found to disrupt fungal cell metabolism, destabilize cellular structures, and induce oxidative stress. These compounds showed strong activity against pathogens including Candida albicans and Aspergillus fumigatus. Saponins were also identified as key antifungal agents, with spirostane and spirostanol saponins from species like A. ampeloprasum and A. porrum demonstrating activity against C. albicans, A. niger, and Fusarium culmorum. Additional saponins — such as Fistoloside C, Minutoside B, and Ceposide variants — exhibited promising antifungal potential, particularly in combination therapies. Reported minimum inhibitory concentrations ranged from 0.15 µg/mL for sulfur compounds to 3.1–800+ µg/mL for saponins. Conclusions: Saponins from Allium species represent promising adjuncts for overcoming antifungal drug resistance and may expand treatment options beyond traditional sulfur-derived compounds. These bioactive molecules also show potential for agricultural use against soil-borne pathogens like F. oxysporum, as well as food preservation applications against spoilage fungi such as Penicillium italicum and A. niger. Overall, Allium species constitute a valuable natural source of antifungal agents with broad pharmaceutical and agricultural relevance.