Terpenoids extracted from Ganoderma show antimicrobial action

Abstract

Nine species of Ganoderma, collected from Western Ghats of Maharashtra (INDIA), were screened for antimicrobial
activity using three different terpenoid (sesquiterpene, diterpene and triterpene) extracts. Seven standard antibiotics
were also screened for their activity against the test organisms. The assays were performed usingthe well assay method.
The sesquiterpenoid extracts were highly active against both gram positive, negative bacteria and Candida albicans,
as compared to that of the standard antibiotics, where as triterpenes and diterpenes showed moderate to weak activity.
Candida albicans showed resistance against diterpene and triterpene extract. From the different terpenoid extracts of
Ganoderma samples, sesquiterpenoid extract showed antibacterial activity. Ganoderma samples especially G.
lucidum, G. chalceum, and G. stipitatum might be potential source of antimicrobial agent