Azadirachta indica in treatment of acne vulgaris–an open‑label observational study

Abstract

Introduction: Azadirachta Indica (Aza.) has been used since decades in traditional medicine for the treatment of acne; even in Homoeopathy, it is recommended but its precise indications are still elusive. This study was undertaken to determine the usefulness of Azadirachta indica in the treatment of acne vulgaris and find its indications. Materials and Methods: A prospective, non‑randomized, open‑label interventional study was conducted after approval from ethical committee. Azadirachta indica was prescribed in raising potencies from 6C up to 1M. The observational period was of 6 months. Outcome measures were Lesion counts, Global Acne Grading System (GAGS) score and Acne‑specific Quality of Life questionnaire (Acne‑QoL) score. Data was analyzed using paired t‑test, Wilcoxon signed rank tests and Pearson’s correlation tests. Results: Out of 31 enrolled participants, 29 completed the 6‑months follow‑up. Two subjects did not report after 2–3 months but were included under Intention‑To‑Treat (ITT). Though there were overall statistically significant results in respect of Lesion counts, GAGS and Acne QoL score (P < 0.001) but no effect was seen in inflammatory lesions. Conclusions: Azadirachta indica has a role in early and recovery phase of acne when inflammatory changes are least. Further study on a larger sample size is desirable. Trial is registered at Clinical Trials.gov Identifier: NCT01321645.