Elephant Vine (Argyreia nervosa) has a documented history of use in traditional medicine, particularly in Ayurveda and folk systems in India and Southeast Asia. In these traditions, parts of the plant—especially the leaves and roots—are applied topically or used in poultices for skin ailments, including abscesses, boils, and wounds. The rationale for its use often centers around its purported anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which are believed to help reduce swelling, draw out pus, and promote healing.

Scientific studies on Argyreia nervosa are limited, and while some in vitro research points to antibacterial and antioxidant activity in extracts of the plant, direct clinical evidence for its efficacy in treating abscesses is lacking. No well-controlled human studies have evaluated its topical or systemic use specifically for abscesses. The traditional rating (2/5) reflects that while the plant is commonly used for this purpose in folk medicine, there is insufficient modern scientific validation to strongly support its effectiveness or safety for abscess treatment. The use of Elephant Vine for abscesses, therefore, is primarily justified by historical and ethnomedical reports rather than robust clinical evidence.