Abstract

Hexane, acetone and methanol extracts obtained from Psidium guajava leaves were studied for their antifungal properties against Trichophyton rubrum, Trichophyton tonsurans, Sporotrix schenckii, Microsporum canis, Cryptococcus neoformans, Candida parapsilosis,and Candida albicans by using the agar disk diffusion technique. Compared to control, hexane extract showed the best antifungal activity, being active against all the tested dermatophytes. Methanol and acetone extracts also showed relevant activity. The phytochemical analysis of the hexane extracts revealed the presence of flavonoids, terpenoids and coumarins, whereas alkaloids, carbohydrates and saponins were not detected. Since the bioactive compounds in the hexane extract inhibit the growth of microorganisms, it could be considered for future development of new anti-skin disease agents.

Key words: Antimycotic activity, dermatophytes, inhibition zone, crude extracts, Psidium guajava.