Evidence supporting the use of: Silver
For the health condition: Athlete's Foot
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2
Silver, particularly in the form of silver sulfadiazine and nanosilver, has demonstrated antimicrobial properties, including antifungal activity, in laboratory studies. This has led to its incorporation in some wound dressings, topical creams, and coatings for medical devices. In the context of athlete's foot (tinea pedis), which is caused by dermatophyte fungi, research has explored the effectiveness of silver nanoparticles and silver-containing compounds as topical antifungal agents. Several in vitro studies have shown that silver nanoparticles can inhibit the growth of common dermatophytes responsible for athlete's foot. Additionally, silver-based creams have been evaluated in small-scale clinical settings for fungal skin infections, with some positive outcomes reported.
However, robust clinical trials specifically addressing the use of silver (in any form) for the treatment of athlete's foot in humans are limited. Most available data come from laboratory research or small pilot studies rather than large randomized controlled trials. As a result, while there is scientific rationale for the antifungal potential of silver, evidence supporting its routine use for athlete's foot in clinical practice remains preliminary. Mainstream treatments for athlete's foot continue to rely on well-established antifungal agents such as azoles and allylamines. Silver-containing products may be considered as adjuncts or alternatives in specific cases, but their use is not yet standard of care based on current evidence levels.
Other ingredients used for Athlete's Foot
ajoenealoe vera
berberine
bisabolol
black walnut
garlic bulb
ginger
lauric acid
monolaurin
oregano
plantain
selenium
thyme
undecylenic acid
zinc
chickweed
shen-chu
neem tree
eucalyptus
camphor oil
menthol oil
herbal blend (proprietary)
melaleuca alternifolia
geranium
10-Undecenoic Acid
Apple Cider Vinegar
Alpha-terpineol
Allicin
Asteracea
allyl isothiocyanate
Babchi
Borate
Bee products
Coconut
Calendula
coconut oil
Carvacrol
Cajuput
Copaiba Oil
Essential Oil Blend
Glyceryl monolaurate
gamma-terpinene
Garlic
Other health conditions supported by Silver
AbrasionsAbscesses
Acne
Antibiotics (alternatives to)
Athlete's Foot
Bites and Stings
Bleeding (external)
Boils
Burns and Scalds
Canker Sores
Carbuncles
Conjunctivitis
Cuts
Dermatitis
Diaper Rash
Eczema
Eye Infections
Gangrene
Gingivitis
Impetigo
Infection
Infection (bacterial)
Infection (viral)
Injuries