Pengaruh Ekstrak Rambut Jagung (Zea mays L. var. indurata) terhadap Pertumbuhan Candida albicans

Abstract

Background. Vulvovaginal candidiasis is an infection caused by Candida sp. especially Candida albicans with symptoms such as pruritus, dyspareunia, dysuria and abnormal vaginal discharge. Incidence rate of vulvovaginal candidiasis is categorized as high, approximately 75% women have one episode of vulvovaginal candidiasis and 40-45% have two or more episodes in lifetime. The high incidence of vulvovaginal candidiasis along with increased antifungal resistance turns out to be a huge conflict and threat, hence alternative therapy of vulvovaginal candidiasis is expected. Indonesia is known to be rich in flora and fauna where annual crops such as corns are plentily obtainable. Corn silk is proven to contain phytochemicals such as alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, steroids and tanins which are well-known for their antimicrobials effects. Objective. This study aim to determine the effectivity of corn silk (Zea mays L. var. indurata) extract in inhibiting growth of Candida albicans. Methods. In this study, corn silk was extracted by maceration with 96% ethanol, then diluted with DMSO 10% to attain concentration of 75%, 50%, 25% and 12,5%. Well diffusion method was used to detect growth inhibition of Candida albicans and agar dilution was used to determine MIC (Minimum Inhibitory Concentration) and MFC (Minimum Fungicidal Concentration) of corn silk extract. Study design is laboratory experimental design. Statistically analyzed with Kruskal-Wallis analysis. Results. Corn silk extract of concentration 75%, 50%, 25% and 12,5% with positive control fluconazole showed significant differences in inhibiting growth of Candida albicans. Conclusions. Corn silk extract of concentration 75%, 50%, 25% and 12,5% has antifungal activity against Candida albicans. The higher the concentration of corn silk extract, the higher the efficacy in inhibiting growth of Candida albicans. MIC and MFC respectively 1,5625% and 6,25%.