Comparison of Inhibitory Effect of Green Tea Extract and Nystatin on Candida Albicans Growth: An in-vitro Study

Background and aim: Candida-albicans is a normal floor and one of the opportunistic pathogens in the oral cavity. There are various treatments for this infection, including nystatin. Considering the high potential of plant extracts, including green tea, in the field of antimicrobial activity, this study was designed to investigate the effect of green tea extract on Candida albicans species. Materials and Methods: Initially, the aqueous-alcoholic extract of green tea at different concentrations was prepared. Broth micro dilution method was used to determine the MIC. From the contents of different wells containing less concentrations of green tea and no candidate growth was observed, 10 micro liter of dextrose agar substrate was removed and the lowest amount of green tea, which showed less growth was considered as minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC). Also, 50% and 100% green tea extracts of the discs were prepared to determine the size of the growth medium in the culture medium. Data analyzed using STATA software 14.  Results: MIC and MFC for green tea extract start at a concentration of 256 mg / ml. It was also found that the inhibition zone was equal to zero in both concentrations of 50% and 100% for the green tea extract. Conclusion: It seems, green tea has antifungal effect in very high concentration rather than oral usage and also, as mouthwash and just with direct contact. Keywords: Candia  albicans, Green tea, Nystatin