Evidence supporting the use of: Thiosulfinate
For the health condition: Carbuncles

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Thiosulfinate compounds, such as allicin, are sulfur-containing molecules primarily found in garlic (Allium sativum). Their use in treating or supporting carbuncles—a type of painful skin abscess typically caused by bacterial infection—can be traced to traditional medicine systems, especially in Asian and Mediterranean cultures. Garlic has historically been applied topically or ingested for its purported “drawing” and antimicrobial effects. This traditional use is supported by anecdotal evidence and historical texts, which often cite garlic poultices for boils and infected wounds.

Scientific validation for thiosulfinates’ efficacy in carbuncles is limited. Laboratory studies confirm that allicin and related thiosulfinates possess broad-spectrum antibacterial activity, including effectiveness against some Staphylococcus aureus strains, which are commonly implicated in skin abscesses. However, there is a lack of robust clinical trials directly assessing the safety and efficacy of thiosulfinate compounds—either as isolated agents or whole garlic preparations—in the management of carbuncles. No standardized dosing regimens or large-scale studies exist for this specific indication. Thus, while the antimicrobial properties of thiosulfinates provide a plausible rationale, their use in carbuncles remains primarily rooted in traditional practice with only modest scientific support (evidence rating: 2/5).

More about Thiosulfinate
More about Carbuncles

Products containing Thiosulfinate

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.