# Antifungal Effects of Fermented _Sophora flavescens_ and _Eleutherococcus sessiliflorus_ Extract
## 1 Introduction  
Plant extracts are known for promising potential antimicrobial activity against microorganisms and fungi. Many studies have reported the antimicrobial properties. One such study investigated the antimicrobial properties of water and ethanolic extracts from plants such as roselle, rosemy, clove, and thyme, against a range of foodborne pathogens and spoilage microorganisms [1; 2; 3]. Microbial activities occur in characterized metabolites such as terpen, flavones, flavonols, alkaloids, and phenylpropanoids [4; 5]. In recent years, there has been growing interest in improving antibacterial activity through efficient metabolite changes [6; 7; 8]. Several research studies have been presented, showcasing innovative methods of enhancing the antioxidant and antibacterial properties of natural substances. For instance, the fermentation of _Salvia milliorhizia_ roots by _Aspergillus oryzae_ has been shown to significantly increase its antioxidant and antibacterial activity [9]. Additionally, the development of a colorimetric sensor with high selectivity for antibacterial agents using green synthesis of gold nanocubes (utilizing sunlight and horsetail leaf extract) has shown promising results [10]. Furthermore, the antibacterial activity of olive fruit extract has been improved through the use of silver nanoparticles [11]. These advancements in antibacterial research hold great potential for the development of more effective and eco-friendly solutions. Sophora flavescens_ exhibits a variety of pharmacological properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer activities [12; 13]. The root contains a range of secondary metabolites, including isoprenoid flavonoids such as kushenol, kurarinone, and maackain, as well as alkaloids and other flavonoids [14]. The key to these beneficial effects lies in the diverse array of compounds found within _S. flavescens_, with flavonoids and alkaloids being the major components. Through extensive research, over 200 compounds have been isolated from the plant, and at least 50 of these have been found to possess potent antifungal properties [15]. Notably, alkaloids such as oxymatrine and matrine, extracted from _S. flavescens_, have been identified as having significant pharmacological effects and are commonly used in the treatment of inflammatory conditions [16]. Eleutherococcus sessiliflorus, also known as Acanthopanax sessiliflorus, is a shrub or small tree native to Eastern Asia [17]. It has been used in traditional medicine for its various properties [18]. Some of the properties associated with _E. sessiliflorus_ include immune-stimulating, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer activities [19]. It has been found to inhibit receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL)-induced osteoclast differentiation and has been evaluated for its potential to prevent osteoporosis [20; 21]. The chemical constituents of _E. sessiliflorus_ include triterpenoids, phenolic compounds, alkaloids, flavonoids, and other bioactive compounds. These constituents have been found in various parts of the plant, including the leaves, roots, and fruits [22; 23]. Some specific compounds that have been identified include chisanoside, chisanogenin, eleutherosides, 3,4-seco-lupanetype triterpenoids, eeleseterpenes AK, and lignans [24]. Bacillus_ fermentation is a process in which bacteria from the Bacillus genus are used to produce a variety of products through the breakdown of organic materials. _Bacillus_ bacteria are aerobic, Gram-positive soil bacteria that have been used for decades in the production of foods such as fermented soybean products, cheese, and yogurt [25]. During fermentation, the bacteria utilize the nutrients in the organic material to produce various substances, including enzymes, organic acids, and other metabolites. These substances can have beneficial effects on health and are used in various applications, such as food, agriculture, and industry [26].