PHYTOCHEMICALS FROM THE INDIAN ASSAM REGION HAVING ANTIFUNGAL PROPERTIES AGAINST Candida spp.

Infectious diseases have been a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Among infectious diseases fungal diseases are often neglected, however, these become serious public health concerns and can cause life-threatening diseases. Candidiasis is one of the fungal infections affecting millions of people worldwide. Current landscapes of its infections are now shifted from Candida albicans to other non-albicans Candida (NAC). C. tropicalis is one such NAC and it is the second most prevalent infection in tropical countries. Similarly, C. auris is one of the emerging pathogens globally. Recent trends have suggested these NAC are resistant to the existing antifungals. Indiscriminate use of antibiotics, increase in the number of immunocompromised patients contributes to its advent. Since the existing therapies are rigged with side effects and are often toxic, new substitutes are required. Plant-based compounds are one of the popular choices and were used in traditional medicines since time immemorial and are often mentioned in Ayurveda, Yunani, Siddha, Chinese medicines, etc. Geographical distribution plays an important role in the identification of medicinally important plants and trees. In this review, we have highlighted the plants from one of the ecological diverse niches located in the Assam region, India. Due to its ideal climate, soil, temperature, and rainfall, the region is particularly rich in plant species and is located in the northeast part of India. This review examines the infections caused by Candida spp and plant substances that could be used as antifungal agents and their mode of action.