Synopsis

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

Lantana camara has a long history of use in traditional medicine across Africa, Asia, and Latin America for various skin conditions, including scabies. Folk practitioners often apply crushed leaves or extracts topically to affected skin, relying on the plant's reputed antimicrobial and insecticidal properties. The traditional rationale is grounded in the belief that Lantana's phytochemicals, such as triterpenoids and essential oils, can help soothe itching and potentially reduce mite populations responsible for scabies.

However, scientific research directly validating the efficacy of Lantana camara against scabies is limited. While a few studies have demonstrated that Lantana extracts possess general antimicrobial, antifungal, and insecticidal activity, there is a lack of robust clinical data or controlled trials specifically addressing its impact on Sarcoptes scabiei, the mite that causes scabies. Most available evidence remains anecdotal or based on in vitro studies not directly related to the human condition. Therefore, while its use is justified primarily by tradition and some plausible phytochemical activity, the scientific support for its efficacy in treating scabies is currently weak.

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