A review on the antifungal activity of garlic

Abstract

Garlic (Allium sativum), a widely used medicinal and culinary herb, has been extensively studied for its broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties, including potent antifungal activity. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the antifungal effects of garlic, highlighting its bioactive constituents, particularly allicin, ajoene, and other sulfur-containing compounds. These phytochemicals disrupt fungal cell membranes, inhibit spore germination, and interfere with fungal enzyme systems. Garlic has demonstrated efficacy against a wide range of fungal pathogens, including Candida spp., Aspergillus spp., and Cryptococcus neoformans, among others. Studies show that garlic extracts can enhance the effectiveness of conventional antifungal drugs and reduce resistance when used in combination therapies. Furthermore, its natural origin and low toxicity make garlic a promising alternative or complementary agent in antifungal treatment strategies. This review emphasizes the potential of garlic as a valuable antifungal agent and suggests directions for future research, including clinical trials and formulation development for standardized therapeutic use.