Comparative efficacy of topical garlic extract and 20% podophyllin solution in the treatment of female genital warts: a triple-blind randomized clinical trial

Genital warts caused by human papillomavirus are common sexually transmitted infections, with no single therapy providing consistent clearance. Garlic extract has antiviral and antiproliferative properties and may offer a low-cost treatment.

To compare the efficacy and safety of topical 5% garlic extract with 20% podophyllin solution in women with genital warts.

Seventy-four women were randomized to 5% garlic extract (n = 37) or 20% podophyllin (n = 37), applied weekly for four weeks. Wart size and count were assessed using marginal models (generalized estimating equations). The primary outcome was change in mean wart size and the secondary outcome was change in wart count.