Rockrose Extract Fights Skin Fungus

A recent study has found that an extract from the Mediterranean rockrose, Cistus salviifolius, exhibits fungicidal activity against several dermatophytes, including Trichophyton rubrum and Microsporum canis. These fungi are responsible for common skin infections, such as ringworm, that affect the skin, hair, and nails.

The study, conducted by researchers from Miguel Hernández University of Elche, along with the universities of Namur and Coimbra, tested the extract's activity against different fungal species. The extract was prepared from plants grown in controlled gardens at Miguel Hernández University of Elche.

Dermatophytes, such as Trichophyton rubrum and Microsporum canis, were found to be particularly sensitive to the extract. In contrast, the extract showed no antifungal activity against yeasts like Candida albicans at the concentrations tested.

The Mediterranean rockrose is a resilient, sun-loving evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean Basin. It has traditionally been used in topical preparations to treat wounds, inflammation, and skin infections. The extract is composed mainly of polyphenols, including tannins and flavonoids.

## Why it matters The discovery of the rockrose extract's fungicidal properties is significant, as it provides a potential new treatment option for common skin infections. Dermatophytes can cause a range of infections, from mild to severe, and current treatment options may have limitations. The use of natural extracts like the Mediterranean rockrose could offer a new avenue for treatment, particularly in regions where traditional medicine is still widely practiced.

The study's findings were published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, highlighting the importance of exploring traditional medicine for new leads in disease treatment. By investigating the biological processes behind traditional remedies, researchers can uncover new compounds and extracts with potential therapeutic applications.