The global prevalence of common acne affects approximately 650 million people and was classified as the eighth most prevalent disease in 2010. It is more common between the ages of 15 and 18, with a possible increase in prevalence among women during adolescence. Acne is generally due to a genetic predisposition and hormonal factors, such as increased androgens during puberty, which leads to increased sebum production in the sebaceous glands.
Traditional acne treatment has included the use of topical or systemic agents such as benzoyl peroxide, antibiotics, retinoids, and laser therapy. However, benzoyl peroxide often causes side effects such as mild dermatitis, skin discoloration, and facial hair growth.
These side effects are too much for what seems to be the go-to treatment. This creates a continuous need for safer alternatives. In this regard, traditional medicine systems like Unani offer possible solutions.
Kalonji and vinegar: The new alternative to benzoyl peroxide?
Unani is an ancient medical system originating from Central Asia, evolving from the teachings and principles of the Greek physician Hippocrates. In Unani medicine, common acne is known as ‘Buthur-i Labaniyya’ and is attributed to imbalances in bodily humors. Treatments focus on the use of natural compounds with antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and detoxifying properties.
Among the recommended remedies are Kalonji (commonly known as black cumin) and Sirka (vinegar), believed to target the underlying causes of acne. This is supported by a study from the Luqman Unani Medical College and Hospital, affiliated with the Central Council of Medicine in New Delhi, India.
In a new study published in the ‘Journal of Dermatologic Science and Cosmetic Technology,’ the efficacy and safety of a topical formula combining Kalonji, the common name for Nigella sativa seeds, a plant native to Asia used for centuries in traditional medicine, and vinegar, traditionally known as ‘Sirka,’ for the treatment of mild to moderate acne were evaluated. The formula was compared to 5% benzoyl peroxide.
The study, conducted as a randomized, prospective, open clinical trial, included only 43 participants aged 13 to 40 over a 28-day treatment period. The participants were divided into two groups: one applied a liniment of black cumin powder and vinegar, while the other used benzoyl peroxide gel.
The results suggest that the formulation could have therapeutic potential as an alternative treatment for acne. Despite the study’s strengths, such as its rigorous design and validated outcome measures, limitations included the small sample size, short duration, and lack of blinding, which may have introduced bias.
Black cumin seeds are used in both medicine and cooking. They are known for their anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antifungal, and antioxidant properties. They have also been observed to strengthen the immune system and have analgesic properties.
In general terms, Sirka vinegar can be considered regular vinegar, usually apple cider vinegar or other fruit vinegars, used for their antimicrobial, detoxifying, and anti-inflammatory properties in natural treatments. However, in India, it may be more concentrated or fermented.
A safe option to combat acne without side effects
The experimental drug could offer efficacy comparable to standard benzoyl peroxide treatment for common acne. Given its favorable safety profile and observed improvements, this therapy shows promise as a possible alternative treatment as it has no side effects.
The treatments were used for 28 days. Both interventions were applied topically at night. The liniment, prepared by mixing black cumin powder with vinegar, was applied locally once a day for at least 20-30 minutes in sufficient quantity. In the control group, benzoyl peroxide gel was applied locally in the same manner once a day for at least 20-30 minutes in sufficient quantity.
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