Efficacy of a Unani formulation in the treatment of Quba (Dermatophytosis): a single blind, randomized and standard controlled trial

Background and objectives: Dermatophytosis or ringworm (Qūbā) is one of the commonest and oldest skin diseases, existing before its true mycological nature was discovered. More than a million healthy as well as immunocompromised individuals are the victims of this infection worldwide. Quba is a well-known disease entity in Unani medicine and is treated successfully since centuries. The present study was designed to compare the safety and efficacy of a Unani formulation and Terbinafine in its management. Methods: Sixty diagnosed cases of ringworm aged between 15- 60 years fulfilling the inclusion criteria were selected for the study and randomly allocated after obtaining voluntary informed consent into two groups of 30 each viz. Group A (test) and Group B (control). A Unani topical formulation, Ushq (Dorema ammoniacum) & Sirka (Vinegar) in test group and Terbinafine 1% Cream in control group was applied locally twice a day for 60 days. Patients were followed and assessed clinically for severity score of color, scaling, itching, margins, size of the lesion and Dermatology Life Quality Index score on every follow up, and KOH mount test was done before and after the study. Results: The test and control drugs showed statistically significant reduction in scores of most of the subjective parameters and KOH (p 0.05) was observed statistically. Conclusion: Unani topical formulation, Ushq (Dorema ammoniacum) & Sirka (Vinegar) is equally effective and safe as Terbinafine 1% Cream in treating ringworm. Keywords: Dermatophytosis, Dorema ammoniacum, Qūbā, Ringworm, Sirka, Ushq