Researching accessible and affordable treatment for common dermatological problems in developing countries. An Ethiopian experience.

Background: Skin diseases are very common in rural and urban areas of Ethiopia, and traditional preparations of plant origin might represent the only alternative to synthetic drugs. Improving knowledge of traditional medicines and assessing their safety and effectiveness is necessary.

Methods: We conducted a two-arm, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial assessing the efficacy of some cosmetic herbal preparations for common dermatologic problems: a 3% thyme essential oil antifungal cream and a 10% chamomile extract cream for eczema-like lesions.