A case series evaluating the efficacy of herbal oil-based Bambusa vulgaris (Bamboo) leaf extracts as a topical treatment for atopic dermatitis

Abstract

BackgroundAtopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic, immune-mediated inflammatory skin disease and incurable that affects both children and adults. Up-to-now, there is no established animal model for AD that can be used in treatment experiments hence it challenges. This case series study aimed to describe the primary clinical treatment outcomes in volunteers with AD when using herbal oil-based bamboo leaf extracts. MethodsDerma gel's ingredients includes: (a) Total Bamboo leaf extracts (50%); (b) Mixed herbal oils (olive, curcumin, coconut, sweet gourd in equal volume, 10%); (c) Vaseline (40%) (d) Skin penetration enhancement additives. It was tested for safety and fast antimicrobial activity before using as a supportive AD treatment. From January to December 2022, 9 cases of AD (ranging from mild to severe) were recruited, including children and adult. The patients applied Derma gel with total bamboo leaf extracts three times a day for three months. The Three Item Severity (TIS) score was used to assess the severity of AD, which included evaluating erythema, edema, papulation, and excoriation at baseline and after 3 months of follow-up. ResultsAmong the 9 AD participants (2 mild, 3 moderate, and 4 severe), 8 out of 9 regardless of the severity of their condition or age, experience with corticosteroids became asymptomatic AD after 3 months of using Dermal gel. ConclusionThese primary results suggested that Bambusa vulgaris leaf extracts could potentially be effective in alleviating AD symptoms and promoting asymptomatic periods. To further validate these findings, additional investigation through randomized clinical trials is necessary. If confirmed, these results could contribute to the development of a novel topical herbal medicine for AD treatment.