Evidence supporting the use of: Garlic bulb
For the health condition: Corns

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Garlic bulb (Allium sativum) has a long-standing history in traditional medicine for the treatment of corns and other skin ailments. In folk remedies, garlic is typically crushed and applied topically to the corn, often covered with a bandage, with the belief that its natural compounds help “dissolve” the thickened skin. The rationale for its use is primarily attributed to the presence of sulfur-containing compounds, such as allicin, which are known for antimicrobial and possibly keratolytic (skin-shedding) properties. However, the scientific evidence supporting garlic's effectiveness for corns is minimal. There are a few small studies or case reports suggesting that garlic extracts may have benefits for certain skin conditions due to their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, but robust clinical trials specifically for corns are lacking. Most contemporary medical sources do not recommend garlic as a first-line treatment for corns, favoring established keratolytic agents like salicylic acid. It is also important to note that topical garlic can potentially cause skin irritation or burns, especially if applied for prolonged periods. Therefore, while garlic remains a popular home remedy rooted in tradition, its use for corns is not supported by strong scientific evidence, meriting a low rating on the evidence scale.

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