Volatile components of plants have been used for antibacterial and antiseptic effects since ancient times. Plant essential oils have also attracted attention due to their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, and have been empirically used for infectious disease care. In recent years, the interest of some medical professionals has increased, and research in the basic and clinical fields has begun. We have conducted basic research on antifungal and anti-inflammatory effects in order to clarify the effect of essential oils on fungal diseases. Specific subjects are ringworm, mucosal candidiasis, which are superficial fungal diseases that are familiar to us, and inflammatory symptoms. Here, we introduced the characteristics of plant essential oils, which are important for the treatment of fungal diseases, and their potential as therapeutic means.
