Mahonia aquifolium: A new type of topical treatment for psoriasis

In an open, prospective multicentre trial in 89 dermatological practices in Germany, 433 patients with subacute and chronic forms of psoriasis were treated with Mahonia aquifolium ointment (Rubisan). M. aquifolium ointment is used as a homoeopathic preparation (according to the German Homoeopathic Pharmacopeia). Of 433 patients entered into the study, 375 were treated over the planned period of 12 weeks, or dropped out of the study early because of healing. A modified PASI score fell significantly from 5.5 ± 4.0 to 2.3 ± 2.6. According to an overall evaluation by dermatologists, symptoms improved or disappeared in 81.1% of patients. According to a subjective evaluation by the patients, 79.7% improved or healed completely. The tolerability of M. aquifolium ointment was evaluated as good or very good by 82.4% of patients. There was a significant improvement in the quality of life, which was used as a subjective parameter throughout the study. While 30.1% of patients had significant or severe symptoms at the start, this was the case for only 5.6% after 12 weeks. M. aquifolium ointment is thus a well-tolerated preparation which should find a place in the treatment of psoriasis.