Antiparasitic effect of limonene, a monoterpene compound found in the essential oils against Giardia lamblia

Introduction: The present work aimed to assess the anti-parasitic effects of limonene (LMN) against Giardia lamblia trophozoites and cysts. Methods: Anti-Giardia activities of LMN (۲۵, ۵۰, and ۱۰۰ μg/mL) were assessed against G. lamblia cysts and trophozoites for ۱۵-۳۶۰ minutes. The effects of LMN on the apoptosis stimulation G. lamblia parasites were determined by colorimetric protease assay. Results: Giardia trophozoites were more sensitive to LMN than cysts. The best effect of LMN was seen at ۱۰۰ μg/mL. LMN markedly triggered caspase-۳ activity by ۱۰.۲%, ۲۵.۳%, and ۳۶.۱%, respectively (P < ۰.۰۰۱). Conclusion: We found the potent in vitro anti-giardia activity of LMN against G. lamblia parasites with the maximum activity at ۵۰ and ۱۰۰ μg/mL. However, additional surveys are necessary to reveal the specific efficacy, mechanisms, and safety of LMN.

Keywords:

Giardiasis , Apoptosis , Natural product , In vitro , Herbal medicine