Evidence supporting the use of: Boric acid
For the health condition: Athlete's Foot

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Boric acid has been used for decades as an antifungal and antiseptic, including in the management of Athlete’s Foot (tinea pedis). Evidence supporting its use is primarily based on its established antifungal properties. Boric acid acts by disrupting the cell walls of fungi, leading to inhibition of growth or cell death. Early studies and case reports (from the mid-20th century onwards) have shown that boric acid, when used as a topical powder or solution, can help control superficial fungal infections of the skin, including Athlete’s Foot.

While boric acid is not a first-line treatment (such as terbinafine or clotrimazole), it is recognized as a useful alternative, especially in cases resistant to standard agents or when other treatments are unavailable. Reviews and monographs (e.g., in MedlinePlus and Drugs.com) note its use for foot soaks to reduce moisture and inhibit fungal growth. However, high-quality randomized controlled trials specifically evaluating its efficacy for Athlete’s Foot are limited, and most data are extrapolated from its broader antifungal activity.

Overall, there is moderate scientific support (evidence rating 3/5) for boric acid’s role as an adjunct or alternative therapy for Athlete’s Foot, especially in resource-limited settings. Safety concerns exist regarding prolonged use or use on broken skin due to potential toxicity, so medical guidance is recommended.

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Products containing Boric acid

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