Evidence supporting the use of: Myrtle
For the health condition: Fungal Infections

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Synopsis

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

Myrtle (Myrtus communis) has a history of use in traditional medicine, but its application for fungal infections is also supported by some scientific evidence. Laboratory (in vitro) studies have demonstrated that extracts and essential oil of myrtle possess antifungal activity against several pathogenic fungi, including Candida albicans and dermatophytes such as Trichophyton species. The antifungal effects are attributed largely to compounds such as myrtenol, α-pinene, and 1,8-cineole present in the essential oil. These studies typically show inhibition of fungal growth in petri-dish assays. However, there are no high-quality human clinical trials evaluating myrtle for the treatment of fungal infections, so while laboratory data is promising, direct evidence for safety and efficacy in humans is lacking.

Traditional systems such as Unani and Mediterranean folk medicine have also utilized myrtle preparations for skin ailments, including those suspected to be of fungal origin, but documented historical usage specifically for fungal infections is less robust compared to other uses (such as for inflammation or wound healing). Overall, myrtle’s use for fungal infections is supported by laboratory science and some traditional precedent, but clinical evidence is minimal. Further research, especially in humans, is necessary to establish its therapeutic value for this indication.

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