Evidence supporting the use of: Terpinen-4-ol
For the health condition: Athlete's Foot

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Synopsis

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

Terpinen-4-ol is a major active component of tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) and is primarily responsible for its antimicrobial properties. Scientific evidence supports its use in the treatment of Athlete's Foot (tinea pedis), a common fungal infection caused by dermatophytes such as Trichophyton species. Several in vitro studies have demonstrated that terpinen-4-ol possesses strong antifungal activity against dermatophytes. For example, Hammer et al. (2003) showed inhibition of Trichophyton rubrum and Trichophyton mentagrophytes by terpinen-4-ol.

Clinical studies on tea tree oil, which typically contains 30-40% terpinen-4-ol, have reported improvement in symptoms and fungal eradication in patients with Athlete's Foot. A randomized controlled trial by Satchell et al. (2002) found that a 50% tea tree oil solution was as effective as 1% tolnaftate (a standard antifungal drug) in relieving symptoms, though complete mycological cure rates were lower. Since the antifungal action of tea tree oil is largely attributed to terpinen-4-ol, its use is scientifically justified for supporting the management of Athlete's Foot. However, while evidence is promising, studies directly examining isolated terpinen-4-ol (rather than whole tea tree oil) are limited, and more large-scale, high-quality trials are needed. Thus, the overall strength of evidence is moderate (rated 3/5).

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