SerpApi.Org
Q. I was suffering from “crotch rot” or fungus around my genitals. I tried over-the-counter stuff, but it only provided temporary relief. But then I remembered what my dermatologist used to use for the very same problem. It was purple and it worked well.
I used artificial intelligence to dig around and discovered he was using gentian violet. I applied some and immediately got the same excellent results. Have all the companies making a fortune from antifungal medications purposely kept this a dark secret?
A. We don’t think there is a conspiracy to keep gentian violet a secret. It is an old-fashioned antimicrobial first synthesized as a dye in 1861. This compound is a deep violet-blue color similar to that of a gentian flower, hence the name.
Doctors used gentian violet to treat fungal infections like thrush in the early 20th century. It fell out of favor when newer drugs were developed, but scientists are now reconsidering its value for dermatology (Experimental Dermatology, Dec. 2013). Physicians have used it for a variety of bacterial as well as fungal infections.
Years ago, we heard from one reader: “I have worked in women’s health for 40 years. Back in the early 1970s the older doctors often painted women’s vaginas with gentian violet to treat persistent yeast infections. They always told the women to warn their husbands about the possibility of purple penises.”
Q. My doctors have prescribed several statins over the years. All of them caused horrible side effects, especially nightmares and muscle cramps.
Eventually I gave up on the statins and switched to Metamucil to help lower my cholesterol and aged garlic extract to control my blood pressure. I am doing far better than I ever did on any prescription.
A. Psyllium (Plantago) is a natural source of soluble fiber that modestly lowers cholesterol. It is the active ingredient in Metamucil.Aged garlic extract has been shown to lower blood pressure by 5 to 10 points (Cureus, May 23, 2026). That is about as effective as many prescription blood pressure medicines.
We are glad to know that you are doing well. Your doctor can track your progress with blood tests and you can monitor your BP at home.
To learn more about aged garlic extract and many other natural approaches to healing, you may wish to read our book, Spice Up Your Health: How Everyday Kitchen Herbs & Spices and Lengthen & Strengthen Your Life. It is available in the book section of the store at www.PeoplesPharmacy.com.
Q. I’ve been using Vicks VapoRub on my psoriasis for years and it’s virtually gone. If I put it on a patch at bedtime, by the next morning, it’s at least 50 percent improved. I swear by it and I even like how it smells!
A. That distinctive aroma is due to camphor, menthol and eucalyptus oil in Vicks. Both camphor and menthol can help ease itching, so some people with psoriasis find Vicks helpful for temporarily relieving itch. Topical eucalyptus oil has been shown to reduce allergic reactions (Scientific Reports, Dec. 1, 2020).
In addition, dermatologists always recommend moisturizing psoriasis patches. They often suggest petrolatum as a heavy-duty moisturizer. Petroleum jelly is the base for Vicks VapoRub, so it may also be serving as an effective moisturizer.
We’ve not seen any evidence that Vicks will be an effective treatment to heal psoriasis, but using it to ease symptoms as you do seems reasonable.
_____
In their column, Joe and Teresa Graedon answer letters from readers. Write to them in care of this newspaper or e-mail them via their Web site: www.peoplespharmacy.com. Their newest book is Top Screwups Doctors Make and How to Avoid Them (Crown).
