Antimicrobial Activity of Opuntia monacantha Cladode Extract Combined with Underground Honey Against Common Pathogens Found on Specimens from Patients with Oral Thrush

Abstract

The burden of candidiasis on an individual is significantly huge, particularly among those living with specific chronic illnesses and those immunocompromised. With the growing incidences of the latter primary conditions, especially in developing countries, there is a need to find preventive measures that are affordable, common, and locally available to the people. Because natural products are believed to be readily available, safe, effective, and affordable, herbal treatments are still widely used all over the world. Consequently, this study sought to investigate whether Opuntia monacantha cladode extract combined with underground honey has antimicrobial activities towards oral candidiasis. This research used an experimental study design. The target population was the Elgeyo Marakwet community of Kenya, where O. monacantha and underground honey are commonly, easily, and readily available. Samples were collected by the researchers, and their taxonomy was validated by a verified herbalist. Afterwards, phytochemical screening and extraction of O. monacantha were done. In the microbiology laboratory, a test for the activity of the mixture against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans was carried out. The Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method was used to determine the antibacterial and antifungal activities of the plant extract. By using the broth microdilution approach, minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) were identified. The extraction of Opuntia monacantha yielded 29.92%. Antimicrobial tests showed that the mixture of O. monacantha extract and underground honey exhibited moderate inhibition against C. albicans, E. coli, and S. aureus, with inhibition increasing with concentration. The methanolic extract and underground honey alone also displayed antimicrobial activity, though less pronounced. Phytochemical analysis confirmed the presence of alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, and saponins in O. monacantha, while underground honey contained alkaloids, tannins, and saponins but lacked flavonoids. In conclusion, O. monacantha and underground honey possess bioactive compounds with antimicrobial potential, supporting their traditional medicinal use.