Evidence supporting the use of: Glyceryl monolaurate
For the health condition: Jock Itch

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

Synopsis

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

Glyceryl monolaurate (GML), also known as monolaurin, is a naturally occurring fatty acid ester derived from lauric acid and glycerol. Its use in supporting or treating jock itch (tinea cruris), a fungal infection commonly caused by Trichophyton species, is primarily justified through scientific exploration of its antimicrobial properties. Several in vitro studies have demonstrated that GML possesses broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, including effects against bacteria, viruses, and some fungi. For example, research has shown GML can disrupt the lipid membranes of various microorganisms, inhibiting their growth and replication. However, most of the published research has focused on its antibacterial and antiviral effects, with limited direct evidence on dermatophytes—the fungi responsible for jock itch.

A few laboratory studies suggest some antifungal activity, but robust clinical trials or comparative studies on its efficacy against tinea cruris are lacking. There is also minimal evidence from traditional medicine regarding its use for this specific condition. While GML is generally recognized as safe for topical use and is sometimes included in skin-care formulations for its antimicrobial benefits, its effectiveness specifically for jock itch remains largely unproven in clinical settings. Thus, while the mechanistic rationale exists and preliminary data are promising, the evidence is limited and does not yet strongly support its use for this condition beyond experimental or adjunctive purposes.

More about Glyceryl monolaurate
More about Jock Itch

Products containing Glyceryl monolaurate

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