Octyl gallate as a treatment for Candida albicans-induced vaginal infection: Effects on fungal burden, inflammation, and Lactobacillus recovery in mice.

Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), primarily caused by Candida albicans, affects a large proportion of women and often recurs due to drug resistance. This study investigates octyl gallate, a naturally derived compound, as a novel treatment for VVC in a mouse model. Female Bagg albino, laboratory-bred strain of the House Mouse (BALB/c) mice were infected with C. albicans and treated intravaginally with octyl gallate at low and high concentrations. Results demonstrated that octyl gallate significantly reduced fungal burden, restored beneficial Lactobacillus populations, and improved histological features of the vaginal tissue. Moreover, levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin (IL)-17A, IL-22, IL-23, and IL-1β, were markedly reduced, suggesting anti-inflammatory activity. No severe systemic side effects or hematological abnormalities were observed. These findings highlight the therapeutic potential of octyl gallate as a natural, dual-action agent for managing VVC through both antifungal and immunomodulatory effects. Further research is needed to evaluate its efficacy and safety in clinical settings.