Polygodial Research
In 1982 Professor J.R.L Walker and his team at the University of Canterbury reported their remarkable breakthrough to the world.
They had found that an extract from Horopito leaves, rich in the natural antifungal, polygodial was more effective at killing Candida albicans than Amphotericin B (a commonly used pharmaceutical).
Horopito has long been used by the indigenous Maori population of New Zealand, both internally and externally for many purposes. Early European settlers to New Zealand also used Horopito for medicinal purposes. As far back as 1848, Horopito is documented in the treatment of skin diseases such as ringworm, and also for venereal diseases, and gastric upsets.
Polygodial
Polygodial is the active constituent in Horopito. Polygodial works as a non-ionic surfactant – it kills Candida by damaging its outer membrane. Polygodial and similar compounds have been the subject of much research. Recent research shows that polygodial is the most powerful anti-fungal in its class.
Reference:
Derita M, et al. Molecules 18(2), 2029-2051.
Doi:10.339/molecules18022029