Development of Antifungal Drugs from Seeds of Persea Americana

This research work concentrates on developing an antifungal cream from the seed extract of*Persea americana (avocado). The study was carried out in Microbiology Department Laboratory of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Uli Nigeria. The primary objective is to explore the potential of avocado seeds, often considered waste, in treating fungal infections, particularly those affecting the skin. This research was carried out to augment the available commercially available antifungal drugs even as a drug resistance among antifungal agents are grossly increasing therefore , the need for new antifungal agents is driven by the increasing resistance to existing drugs and the demand for natural, effective alternatives. Avocado seeds were collected, cleaned, dried, and ground into a fine powder. The powder underwent extraction using cold solvent and ethanolic methods to obtain the bioactive compounds. The extract was then incorporated into a cream base. The antifungal efficacy of the cream was evaluated through in vitro assays against common fungal pathogens isolated from the foot web of participating students such as Trichophyton rubum. The cream's effectiveness was compared with commercial antifungal products. Results demonstrated that the avocado seed extract exhibited significant antifungal activity, inhibiting the growth of the tested pathogens. The cream formulation was found to be effective and stable, with comparable efficacy to standard treatments. This study concludes that avocado seed extract is a promising natural antifungal agent. Further clinical trials to confirm efficacy and safety in humans, to optimize extraction methods, explore long term effects, fully understand the mechanism of action and explore if utilizing avocado seeds in antifungal formulations can offer a sustainable and effective treatment option.