Topical Allium sativum extract reduces parasite burden and promotes tissue repair in Leishmania mexicana-infected BALB/c mice.

Localized cutaneous leishmaniasis (LCL) caused by Leishmania mexicana is a neglected tropical disease with limited therapeutic options due to the toxicity, high cost, and prolonged administration associated with meglumine antimoniate (Glucantime®), highlighting the need for safer and more accessible treatments. In the present study, topical cream formulations containing aqueous extracts of Allium sativum (1%, 5%, and 10%) were evaluated in an experimental BALB/c mouse model of LCL. The 1% formulation showed the highest efficacy, significantly reducing lesion size and parasite burden compared to both the excipient and Glucantime® control groups. Histopathological analysis revealed re-epithelialization and improved tissue repair, while no significant differences in IFN-γ expression were observed among groups. Chemical characterization by GC-MS and UHPLC-MS/MS identified organosulfur and phenolic compounds, supporting a mechanistic basis for the observed leishmanicidal and wound-healing effects. Overall, the 1% A. sativum formulation demonstrated superior therapeutic performance under the evaluated conditions, combining antiparasitic activity, tissue repair, and good tolerability. These findings highlight the potential of A. sativum-based topical formulations as a safe, effective, and less invasive alternative for the treatment of localized cutaneous leishmaniasis.