Clinical evaluation of an Indian polyherbal topical formulation in the management of eczema.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a topical application of Herbavate cream (Troikaa Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Ahmedabad, India), a polyherbal formulation in the management of outpatients with eczema.


METHODS
This was an open label design.


METHODS
One hundred and fifty (150) outpatients with a clinical diagnosis of eczema and meeting the eligibility criteria used topical Herbavate twice daily for 4 weeks. Change in symptom score for eczema (erythema, scaling, thickening, and itching) was assessed weekly using a 4-point score. The trial was carried out at Civil Hospital, Ahmedabad, Seth V.S. Hospital, Ahmedabad, and Stanley Medical College, Chennai.


METHODS
The primary outcome measure was a change in symptom score at 4 weeks as compared to baseline scores. The secondary outcome measure was a weekly change in symptom score as compared to the previous visit. Local tolerance was judged by development of side effects at site of application.


RESULTS
Clinical improvement in symptom score at the end of study as compared to baseline was significant for all symptoms assessed (p < 0.001). Significant reduction in symptoms scores was observed from end of week 1. Local tolerance was good, with only 5 patients reporting side effects that improved with continued use. No patient withdrew due to side effects.


CONCLUSIONS
Herbavate, a topical polyherbal formulation, appears to an attractive alternate option for the management of outpatients with eczema.
Rawal
Ranjan C
RC
N. H. L. Medical College & V. S. Hospital, Ahmedabad, India.
Shah
Bela J
BJ
Jayaraaman
Ammani M
AM
Jaiswal
Vijaya
V
D000287:Administration, Topical; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D031107:Calotropis; D002648:Child; D030024:Curcuma; D004338:Drug Combinations; D004485:Eczema / Q000145:classification / Q000188:drug therapy*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D019684:Magnoliopsida; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D008517:Phytotherapy / Q000009:adverse effects; D028321:Plant Preparations / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D052596:Pongamia; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D032322:Solanum; D055815:Young Adult
D004338:Drug Combinations; D028321:Plant Preparations