Background: Superficial fungal infection is among the most common reasons for dermatologic consultation. The essential oil of Cymbopogon citratus (lemongrass) exhibits antifungal activity. Objectives: To compare the efficacy of 10% lemongrass oil with 1% clotrimazole solution in treating tinea corporis and tinea cruris in terms of complete cure and adverse events. Methods: Ninety-six patients clinically and mycologically diagnosed with tinea corporis and/or tinea cruris were assigned randomly to apply either 10% lemongrass oil or 1% clotrimazole solution twice daily for 4 weeks. Clinical and mycologic evaluations were conducted at baseline, and weekly up to 2 weeks post-therapy. Complete cure was achieved if there was clinical and mycologic cure at 4 weeks, Results: There was no statistically significant difference in terms of complete cure at four weeks between the two groups (p=1.0, Fisher's exact test). There was no recurrence 2 weeks post-treatment in both groups. Erythema and burning sebsation from the application of lemongrass were observed in two patients. Conclusion: This randomized controlled trial showed that 10% lemongrass oil was effective as 1% clotrimazole solution in treating tinea corporis and tinea cruris based on clinical, mycologic and complete cure.

Human ; Male ; Female ; Child Preschool: 2-5 Yrs Old ; Child: 6-12 Yrs Old ; Adolescent: 13-18 Yrs Old ; Young Adult: 19-24 Yrs Old ; Adult: 25-44 Yrs O ; Cymbopogon