Azadirachta indica (Neem) a Potential Alternative for the Treatment of Acne: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Introduction: Modern science has improved mankind's life expectancy, but is often limited to better off of society. Acne is a physiologically harmful skin condition that primarily affects adolescents and has negative side effects from contemporary treatment. Neem an age-old traditional tree from India used to treat skin ailments, lacks contemporary evidence in the treatment of acne. Hence, we aimed to sieve the efficacy and safety of neem in acne in a systematic manner.

Methods: This review systematically searched for randomized control trials in four databases in the last ten years to determine the efficacy and safety of neem in acne treatment. Data from these trials are presented in two MS Excel grids, and the methodology of each study is assessed.

Results: Twenty-five full-text articles were screened of which only two articles got included following inclusion criteria. The two single-blind, randomized clinical trials were conducted in India, having a study duration of 6 weeks, with a total of 121 acne patients. Azadirachta indica (neem) application reported a positive efficacy in the subjective and objective outcome, along with non-serious adverse events.

Conclusion: Neem safety and effectiveness in acne is difficult to be generalized due to limited trials, hence both clinicians and patients should be cautious. Double-blind, enhanced duration, and with a higher sample size trial is suggested.

PROSPERO Registration: CRD42022359779

Note:
Funding Information: There was no funding for the project.

Conflict of Interests: None of the authors had any competing interest/conflict of interest regarding the project.

Keywords: azadirachta indica, randomized control trial, review

JEL Classification: I/1