African black soap is quickly becoming one of the favorite skin care products around. It’s used for a wide range of purposes – from treating stretch marks and acne breakouts to reducing wrinkles. However, there might be much more to this natural product than just its applications in the beauty industry. Some studies have found that we could treat fungal infections with African black soap.
African Black Soap – Origin and Use
Originating in West Africa, African black soap is hand-made by the local community. In fact, all fair-trade purchases of this product can directly benefit the communities that make it, thus supporting sustainability.
The soap itself is made from local plants like palm tree leaves, shea tree bark, and cocoa pods. All these plants give the soap its characteristic black color.
Can You Use It to Treat Fungal Infections?
Several studies have found that African black soap has antimicrobial and antifungal qualities. For example, one study published in the ARPN Journal of Science and Technology found that this soap can be an effective alternative to chemical cleansers. Another study found that it can inhibit the growth of seven strains of fungi, including candida albicans.
To use African black soap, you’ll first need to smooth it out. You can do this by either dissolving a piece of it in water or pulling a chunk off the soap bar and rubbing it between your palms. After applying it to your skin, rinse it thoroughly with warm water.
Conclusion
Check with your doctor before you decide to treat fungal infections with African black soap. Although the soap will hardly do any damage to your skin, you might want to check whether your infection is too advanced to be treated with natural medication.
