Antifungal and anti-virulence activity of six essential oils against important Candida species - a preliminary study.

Opportunistic infections with Candida species are becoming more problematic, considering their increasing virulence and resistance to antifungal drugs. Aim: To assess the antifungal and anti-virulence activity of basil, cinnamon, clove, melaleuca, oregano and thyme essential oils (EOs) on five Candida species ( C. albicans , C. auris , C. krusei , C. parapsilosis and C. guillermondii ). Methods: The MIC, growth rate, antibiofilm activity, regulation of gene expression ( ALS3 , SAP2 , HSP70 ) and germ-tube formation were evaluated by specific methods. Results: Most EOs inhibited Candida species growth and reduced the expression of some virulence factors. Cinnamon and clove EO showed the most significant inhibitory effects. Conclusions: The tested EOs are promising agents for facilitating the management of some Candida infections.