Assessment of Antifungal Activity of Henna (Lawsonia inermis) Leaves Extract (Aqueous) with Commercial Antifungal Drug by Disc Diffusion Method against Canine Fungal Dermatitis

Abstract

This study was undertaken to investigate the antifungal activity of aqueous henna (Lawsonia inermis) leaf extract compared to ketoconazole and itraconazole using the disc diffusion method in canine fungal dermatitis. Isolated fungi, including Penicillium, Aspergillus, and Microsporum species, were tested, demonstrating varied inhibition zones. The zone of inhibition against penicillium spp was 24mm, for ketoconazole, 14mm for itraconazole, and 18mm for aqueous henna leaf extract. For Aspergillus spp 22mm for ketoconazole, 15 for itraconazole, and 17 for aqueous henna leaf extract in the same way for Microsporum spp 23mm for ketoconazole, 18 mm for itraconazole, and 16mm for aqueous henna leaf extract. For Curvularia spp, 30mm for ketoconazole and for Malasezzia spp, 28mm for ketoconazole. Henna extract exhibited significant antifungal effects comparable to conventional drugs, particularly against Penicillium and Aspergillus species. This suggests henna's potential as an alternative or adjunctive treatment for fungal infections in canines. Further research is warranted to optimize concentration and explore its broader applicability in veterinary dermatology, potentially offering a natural and effective therapeutic option against fungal dermatitis in dogs.