The preventive effects of plantago major,mallow and Honey on radiation-induced dermatitis in patients with breast cancer: A double-blind clinical trial

Abstract

Objectives

Radiation-induced dermatitis (RID) is a common side effect of radiotherapy, and some medicinal herbs may affect its development or severity. This clinical trial aimed to evaluate the protective effects of a topical herbal ointment containing Plantago major, mallow, and honey in patients with breast cancer.

Methods

This randomized double-blind clinical trial included patients with breast cancer who were candidates for adjuvant radiotherapy. The patients were randomized into the intervention (n = 42) and placebo (n = 42) groups. Dermatitis grade and related symptoms (itching, burning, pain) were assessed on days 7, 14, and 21 of radiotherapy and two weeks and three months post-treatment using standardized scoring scales.

Results

Topical application of the herbal ointment significantly reduced the severity of radiation-induced dermatitis compared with placebo, with lower itching scores on days 14 (0.71 vs. 2.93; P < 0.01) and 21 (1.26 vs. 4.26; P < 0.01), and fewer cases of grade ≥2 dermatitis (26.2% vs. 61.9%). Three months after treatment, subacute pigmentation was also significantly lower in the intervention group (P = 0.001).

Conclusion

Topical application of an ointment containing Plantago major, mallow, and honey significantly reduced the severity and duration of RID, as well as associated symptoms such as itching and burning, suggesting its potential as a safe complementary treatment.