Efficacy and Safety of a Standardized Herbal Topical Formulation Containing Dorema ammoniacum for Mild to Moderate Plaque Psoriasis: A Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Trial

Background: Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease for which topical corticosteroids remain the most commonly used treatment; however, their long-term use may be limited by adverse effects and tachyphylaxis. In Persian medicine, Dorema ammoniacum (Oshaq) has been used for inflammatory skin conditions, suggesting a potential complementary therapeutic approach.Objective :This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a standardized topical formulation containing Dorema ammoniacum resin, vinegar, and wheat germ oil in patients with mild-to-moderate plaque psoriasis. Methods: As the first double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized trial of this formulation, the study sought to provide high-quality clinical evidence using the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) and the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) as validated outcome measures.Results: For the intervention group, mean PASI score decreased significantly (P = ۰.۰۰۷) from ۶.۰۳ to ۴.۱۸ by week ۸. The placebo group showed no significant change. At week ۴ (P = ۰.۰۰۳) and week ۸ (P < ۰.۰۰۱), between-group differences were significant. The intervention group's DLQI score decreased significantly (P ≤ ۰.۰۰۱) from ۲۰.۴۳ to ۱۵.۱۸ by week ۸, and significant between-group differences were noted (P ≤ ۰.۰۰۱) favoring the intervention. No serious adverse events were noted.Conclusion: The Oshaq-based topical formulation is significantly better than placebo. It improves the severity of mild-to-moderate plaque psoriasis and the quality of life of affected patients. Larger studies with extended follow-up and active comparators are needed to assess its therapeutic role further.

کلیدواژه ها:

Psoriasis ، Phytotherapy ، Persian medicine ، Dorema ammoniacum