Evidence supporting the use of: Sapindus mukorossi
For the health condition: Jock Itch
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Sapindus mukorossi, commonly known as soapnut or reetha, has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine. Traditionally, the pericarp of the fruit is used for its cleansing and antimicrobial properties, often applied to skin conditions including fungal infections like jock itch (tinea cruris). Folk remedies suggest that its saponin-rich extracts help cleanse the affected area and may inhibit the growth of dermatophytes because of their detergent-like action. However, while in vitro studies have shown that saponins from Sapindus mukorossi possess some degree of antimicrobial and antifungal activity, there is a lack of robust clinical trials specifically investigating its efficacy for jock itch in humans. The traditional use is the primary justification for its application in this context, with anecdotal and ethnobotanical reports supporting its role. Scientific validation is currently limited to preliminary laboratory studies and does not extend to well-designed clinical research for jock itch. Therefore, the evidence supporting its use is modest (rated 2 out of 5), grounded mainly in tradition rather than strong scientific consensus.
Other health conditions supported by Sapindus mukorossi
AbrasionsAthlete's Foot
Bites and Stings
Blisters
Boils
Bruises (healing)
Burns and Scalds
Cuts
Fungal Infections
Insect Repellant
Itching
Itching (rectal)
Jock Itch
Lesions
Lice
Poison Ivy or Oak
Rashes and Hives
Scabies
Scratches and Abrasions
Skin (infections)
Ulcerations (external)
Wounds and Sores