A Two-Year Comparative Study of the Anti-dermatophytic Activity of Thuja orientalis Essential Oil Stored at Various Temperatures

Background: Thuja orientalis generally recognized as Chinese arborvitae, placed under the family Cupressaceae is a commonly available medicinal plant in India. Objectives: In present research work Thuja leaves essential oil stored in three temperatures for two-years storage periods was evaluated against fungi causing ring worm infection in man. Materials and Methods: Thuja oil was hydro-distilled and stored for 24 months in airtight amber glass bottles at three distinct temperatures. MIC was determined through semi solid agar diffusion method containing BHIA medium. Anti-dermtophytic activity of stored oil was examined in triplets after every fourth month of storage up to 2 years. Results: Oil stored in refrigerator was found to be more stable up to two year of storage time. No activity changes were observed in this condition against all test fungi. While variable temperature condition of room temperature was found less suitable for the storage of oil. MIC against Candida albicans was increased 40% after 2 years (>3.5 μL/mL) and 66% against Microsporum fulvum. Oil stored at 30ºC temperature condition was found more stable upto IV testing. Slightly changes were observed during Vth testing against C. albicans, M. fulvum and M. canis. Conclusion: Present study concluded that essential oil of Thuja put away in chilliness condition can reserved their quality and properties of antifungal behaviour for long time. Accordingly, putting away of volatile oil ointment items in coolness (beneath 8ºC) condition is best guidelines for long term use of therapeutic items.