The inhibitory effect of Sambiloto (Andrographis paniculata Nees) leaf extract on growth of Candida albicans

Background: Linear gingival erythema (LGE) is a periodontal disease caused by fungal infection of the genus Candida. Based on the results of Nugraha’s research, the most common Candida species in LGE was Candida albicans which reached 71.43%. Several studies have shown that sambiloto (Andrographis paniculata Nees) has antifungal activity because sambiloto contains active ingredients such as andrographolides, flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, and tannins. Objective: This study aims to determine the inhibitory effect of sambiloto (Andrographis paniculata Nees) leaf extract on growth of Candida albicans. Methods: This research is an in-vitro laboratory experimental study. Sambiloto (Andrographis paniculata Nees) leaf extract was produced by the maceration method using 70% ethanol. The inhibition testing on Candida albicans cultures was carried out by spectrophotometric methods and colony counts. Result: At concentration of 100%, 50%, 25%, and 12.5% of sambiloto leaf extract, no fungal colonies were found. While at concentration of 6.25% can inhibit fungal by 91.67%. Statistical tests on each concentration group showed a significance value of 0,001 (p<0.05). Conclusion: Sambiloto (Andrographis paniculata Nees) leaf extract has an inhibitory effect on growth of Candida albicans with MIC values at concentration of 6.125% and MBC of 12.5%.