In vitro evaluation of the effectiveness of Schinus molle essential oil against Candida albicans: resistant and sensitive strains.

Objective: The purpose of this research project was to establish the inhibitory effect of the essential oil and ethanolic extract of Schinus molle against Candida albicans resistant strain (ATCC® 60193™) and Candida albicans sensitive strain (ATCC® 90028™). Materials and methods: An in-vitro experimental study was carried out to assess the antimicrobial activity of the formulations of essential oil and ethanolic extract of S. molle at concentrations of 25%, 50%, 75% and 100%, against resistant and sensitive Candida albicans. 70% alcohol (negative control) and fluconazole (positive control) were used as controls. Regarding the statistical analysis, measures of central tendency and dispersion were assessed. For the relationship between the type of extract, species of Candida albicans and concentration, the Kruskal-Wallis test was used, with a confidence level of 95% (p < 0.05). Results: A clinical inhibitory effect was observed at various concentrations for both the oily and ethanolic extracts of Schinus molle. However, statistical analysis indicated that these effects were not significant, except at 100% concentration. The 100% ethanolic extract of S. molle exhibited the highest mean inhibition value against resistant Candida albicans (5.67 ± 4.509), with a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05, p = 0.038). Nevertheless, its inhibitory effect did not surpass that of fluconazole. Conclusions: The 100% ethanolic extract of S. molle presented a higher inhibitory effect than the other concentrations against resistant Candida albicans. However, its efficacy did not exceed that of fluconazole, which acted as a positive control. Additional studies are recommended to further explore the potential therapeutic benefits and expand the understanding of its antimicrobial potential.