Antifungal Efficacy of Cordyceps militaris-Mycometabolites Against Major Fungal Diseases of Withania somnifera

Abstract

Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha), a vital medicinal plant, faces significant losses due to fungal diseases such as root rot, wilt, and leaf spot caused by Fusarium annulatum and Alternaria alstroemeriae. To manage these pathogens, metabolites of Cordyceps militaris were extracted and tested for antifungal efficacy using the poison food technique. Results showed the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values against F. annulatum and A. alstroemeriae were 15 mg/mL and 20 mg/mL, respectively, with cidal effects observed at 20 mg/mL and 30 mg/mL. In silico investigations revealed that cordycepin, a metabolite, exhibited strong binding affinity to the fungal chitin synthetase protein. These findings suggest that C. militaris metabolites could be used as a potential alternative to synthetic fungicides.