Kalonji (Nigella sativa) and Sirka (vinegar) may help target the underlying causes of acne, according to research in the Journal of Dermatologic Science and Cosmetic Technology.
The study, conducted as a prospective, open-label randomized controlled trial, enrolled 43 participants aged 13–40, over a 28-day treatment period. Participants were divided into two groups: one group applied a liniment of Kalonji powder and vinegar, while the other used 5% benzoyl peroxide gel.
The main message? This formulation may have therapeutic potential as an alternative acne treatment.
The study did have its share of limitations such as a small sample size, short duration, and lack of blinding, which may have introduced bias, the researchers note.
The researchers recommended future research with larger sample sizes, longer follow-up periods, and blinded designs. Additionally, advanced methodologies like genomics and metabolomics can be used to gain deeper insights into the mechanisms of action.
PHOTO CAPTION: CONSORT flow diagram of the participants studied in test and control groups.
PHOTO CREDIT: Nazim Husain, et al
