Alstonia scholaris, commonly known as the Devil's Tree or Saptaparna, has a longstanding history of use in various traditional medicine systems, particularly Ayurveda and folk medicine in India and Southeast Asia. Traditionally, different parts of the plant, especially the bark and leaves, have been applied topically to wounds, cuts, and abrasions. This practice is rooted in the belief that Alstonia scholaris possesses antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help prevent infection and promote healing of minor skin injuries.

Ethnobotanical surveys and Ayurvedic texts mention the use of Alstonia scholaris in formulations for skin ailments, including abrasions. The latex and leaf extracts have been applied as poultices or ointments on affected areas. However, while these traditional claims are well-documented, scientific validation remains limited. Some in vitro studies have suggested that extracts from Alstonia scholaris exhibit antimicrobial and wound-healing activities, but clinical evidence in humans is lacking, and the available studies are preliminary.

In summary, the use of Alstonia scholaris to treat abrasions is primarily justified by traditional use rather than robust scientific research. While there are plausible mechanisms based on preliminary laboratory findings, high-quality human studies confirming safety and efficacy for abrasions are currently insufficient.