Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Neem (Azadirachta indica) has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, particularly in India, for a range of skin ailments, including fungal infections. Its application for Athlete’s Foot (tinea pedis), a common fungal infection caused by Trichophyton species, is supported both by tradition and a growing body of scientific evidence. Neem leaves, oil, and extracts contain bioactive compounds such as nimbidin, nimbin, and gedunin, which have demonstrated antifungal activity in vitro against various dermatophytes responsible for Athlete’s Foot. Several laboratory studies have shown that neem extracts can inhibit the growth of Trichophyton rubrum and Trichophyton mentagrophytes, the primary fungi implicated in tinea pedis (source).

However, while preclinical studies and small-scale clinical trials report positive outcomes, large, high-quality randomized controlled trials in humans are limited. Most evidence comes from laboratory studies or traditional topical preparations used in Ayurveda. The antifungal mechanism is thought to involve disruption of fungal cell membranes and inhibition of spore germination. Some over-the-counter herbal creams include neem oil as an ingredient for Athlete’s Foot, reflecting both traditional endorsement and the early scientific findings.

In summary, neem’s use for Athlete’s Foot is justified by both tradition and emerging scientific evidence, with moderate support (3/5) primarily due to promising lab studies and some clinical data, but lacking robust, large-scale clinical trials.

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