This investigation aims to evaluate the protoscolicidal effects of Myrtle (Myrtus communis L.) extract on the protoscoleces of hydatid cysts on an in vitro model. Protoscoleces were aseptically aspirated from the livers of naturally infected sheep. Various concentrations of extract were used for 10-60 minutes. Eosin exclusion test was used to determine the viability of protoscoleces. Findings showed that extract at the concentrations of 500 and 25 mg/mL killed 100% protoscoleces after 10 and 20 minutes of exposure, respectively. Obtained results in this investigation for the first time demonstrated that Myrtle might be a natural source for the production of new scolicidal agents.
