Different extracts and isolated substances from the root of Onosma visianii Clem. as antifungal agents

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the antifungal activity of extracts and isolated substances from the root of Onosma visianii Clem. (Boraginaceae) by determining the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC). The results show that antifungal activity depends on species of microorganism and the type of substances or extracts. All tested substances showed selective and moderate antifungal activity. MIC and MFC values for the extracts ranged from <0.015 to 15 mg/ml, while those for substances ranged from 0.04 to 5 mg/ml. Among all tested extracts, petroleum ether and methylene chloride in proportion 1:1 (against Penicillium expansum) and acetone extract (against Saccharomyces boulardii) showed the strongest antifungal activity. Among the isolated substances, the most significant was the effect of 5,8-O-dimethyl deoxyshikonin against P. expansum. The results of this study show that both extracts, and the isolated substances can be potentially used in pharmacology, biotechnology, or agriculture.