In-Vitro Effect of Menthe Piperita and Salvia Officinalis Extracts on Trichomonas Vaginalis

Trichomonas vaginalis is a flagellate parasite causing vaginosis, a common sexual transmitted disease. Metronidazole is the drug of choice for this disease but due to its side effects, it is necessary to search for an alternative drug. In this study, the effect of Menthe piperita and Salvia officinalis on Trichomonas vaginalis was investigated. Hydro-alcoholic extracts of the two herbs were prepared. The extracts were dried using vacuum rotary evaporator. Different concentrations of the extracts in comparison with methronidazole were added in test tubes containing culture medium and the parasite. All test tubes were kept in 37ºC for 24 hours. The tubes were then expected for the parasite growth. In concentrations of 2, 2.5, 4, 5, 8, and 10 mg/ml of Salvia officinalis and in concentrations of 4, 5, 8, and 10 mg/ml of Menthe piperita the parasite did not grow. The effect of the extracts on Trichomonas vaginalis was similar to the effect of metronidazole on the parasite. Salvia officinalis and Menthe piperita had efficient effect against Trichomonas vaginalis growth in culture medium and s,o these two herbs can be considered as alternatives drugs. However, more investigation is recommended.