Terminalia Chebula Cream for Skin Fungus? What the Research Says
Quick Summary: Researchers looked at a cream made from Terminalia chebula to see if it could treat fungal skin infections. The study found it worked just as well as the control treatment, with no serious side effects.
Can Terminalia Chebula Treat Skin Fungus?
This research explored whether a topical cream made from Terminalia chebula could help with fungal skin infections. The study compared the Terminalia chebula cream to a control treatment. The results showed the Terminalia chebula cream was just as effective at clearing up the fungal infection and reducing itching.
What The Research Found
The study found that the Terminalia chebula cream:
- Cleared up the fungus: The cream helped get rid of the fungus, as seen under a microscope.
- Reduced itching: People using the cream reported less itching.
- Improved overall condition: Doctors saw an improvement in the skin condition.
- Didn't cause harm: Blood tests showed no negative effects on the body.
Study Details
- Who was studied: 40 people with fungal skin infections.
- How long: The study duration was not specified in the summary.
- What they took: Participants used either the Terminalia chebula cream or a control treatment. The exact dosage and formulation of the Terminalia chebula cream were not specified.
What This Means For You
This research suggests that Terminalia chebula cream might be a helpful option for treating fungal skin infections. However, it's important to remember:
- Talk to your doctor: Don't try to treat a skin infection on your own. See a doctor for a diagnosis and treatment plan.
- More research is needed: This study was small, and we need more research to confirm these findings and understand the best way to use Terminalia chebula for skin infections.
Study Limitations
- Small study: The study only included a small number of people, so the results may not apply to everyone.
- Missing details: The study didn't provide all the details, such as the exact ingredients and how long people used the cream.
- Need for more research: More studies are needed to confirm these findings and determine the best way to use Terminalia chebula for skin infections.
Technical Analysis Details
Key Findings
The study demonstrated non-inferiority of a Terminalia chebula-based topical formulation compared to a control treatment for dermatophytosis (fungal skin infections). Primary outcomes—resolution of hyphae on KOH mount, reduction in pruritus severity (100 mm VAS), and physician’s global assessment—showed statistically significant non-inferiority. Secondary outcomes, including dermatology life quality index (DLQI) improvement, also met non-inferiority criteria. Safety parameters (hemogram, serum creatinine, bilirubin, random blood sugar) remained stable, indicating no adverse systemic effects.
Study Design
Labeled as an observational study in the source but methodologically consistent with a randomized controlled trial (RCT). Per-protocol analysis included 40 participants (21 in the Terminalia chebula test group, 19 in the control group) with dermatophytosis. Primary outcomes assessed hyphae presence via KOH microscopy, pruritus severity (100 mm visual analog scale), and physician global assessment. Secondary outcome measured DLQI changes. Safety was monitored through baseline and post-treatment blood tests. Duration and randomization details were not specified in the provided summary.
Dosage & Administration
The summary did not specify the exact concentration, formulation, or frequency of the Terminalia chebula topical application. Administration was described only as "topical," with no details on vehicle (e.g., cream, oil) or treatment duration.
Results & Efficacy
Non-inferiority was confirmed as observed differences between groups exceeded the pre-defined non-inferiority margin for all primary and secondary outcomes. Specific effect sizes and statistical values (e.g., p-values, confidence intervals) were not quantified in the provided summary. The per-protocol analysis (n=40) indicated consistent efficacy across KOH test clearance, pruritus reduction, and physician assessments, with DLQI improvements supporting quality-of-life benefits. Safety labs showed no clinically significant changes post-treatment.
Limitations
The small sample size (n=40) limits statistical power and generalizability. Per-protocol analysis (excluding dropouts) risks selection bias, potentially overestimating efficacy. Critical details were absent: control treatment identity, Terminalia chebula dosage, treatment duration, randomization method, and statistical metrics (e.g., p-values). The misclassification of study design (labeled "observational" despite interventional methodology) raises concerns about methodological rigor. Future research requires larger trials with intention-to-treat analysis, detailed dosing protocols, and head-to-head comparisons against standard antifungals.
Clinical Relevance
This study suggests Terminalia chebula topical formulations may offer a safe, non-inferior alternative for dermatophytosis treatment, particularly in contexts valuing traditional Unani medicine. However, the lack of dosage specifics and small sample size preclude clinical recommendations. Users should not self-administer未经验证 formulations; further validation is essential before integration into evidence-based practice. The findings support continued investigation but do not justify replacing established antifungals like terbinafine.
Original Study Reference
Evaluation of the efficacy of topical
Source: PubMed
Published: 2023
📄 Read Full Study (PMID: 37012894)
