Propolis as a Therapeutic Alternative Against Oral Candidiasis: A Systematic Review

Introduction The word Candida goes back to the traditional white robes worn by Roman candidates (candidatus) running for public office. The term albicans is derived from another Latin word albico/albicatus, meaning “to be white” or “bordering on white.” Basically, the term Candida albicans is redundant and means “to be white” (Hellstein & Marek, 2019). Candida species are part of the normal microbiota of healthy people. There are about 200 species, of which only 10% are considered etiologic agents. They live as commensals but are opportunistic microorganisms. People with weakened immune systems tend to have aggressive manifestations. Several factors contribute to fungal infections, including: Disruption of skin and mucosal barriers, neutrophil dysfunction, disruption of cell-mediated immunity, metabolic disorders, long-term treatment with antibiotics, chemotherapy, transplantation, resistance to antifungal drugs, and others (Pfaller & Diekema, 2007).