Vol. 3, Special Issue 3, Part H (2017)

Abstract
Human skin is prone to many types of infections from a range of microorganisms. Candidiasis and Cryptococcosis infections are common fungal infections. The currently antifungal therapies used such as amphotericin B, fluconazole, and itraconazole have certain limitations due to side effects and emergence of resistant strains. Naturally occurring plant metabolites are useful sources of new biocidal compounds. The ethanolic and diethyl ether leaf extracts from seven plant species (Ocimum sanctum, Nerium oleander, Ricinus communis, Catharanthus roseus, Annona squamosal, Calotropis gigantean and Azadirachta indica) were assayed for their antimicrobial activity against the opportunistic yeast Candida albicans and Cryptococcus neoformans. Ethanol and ether extract of Ricinus communis, Catharanthus roseus and Calotropis gigantea showed strongest efficiency against both fungal species. The ether extracts of Ocimum sanctum, Ricinus communis and Nerium oleander against Candida albicans were more active as compared to that of Cryptococcus neoformans. Ricinus communis, Catharanthus roseus, Azadirachta indica and Calotropis gigantean remained active 10 days after incubation