Tree Turmeric (Berberis aristata) has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, particularly Ayurveda and Unani, for the treatment of skin infections, including boils. The primary active constituent, berberine, is known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Traditional healers have used pastes or decoctions made from the stem, root, or bark to apply topically on boils, aiming to reduce infection and promote healing.

While there is some preclinical evidence that berberine and related alkaloids possess antibacterial activity against common skin pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus, direct clinical evidence specifically supporting the use of Tree Turmeric for boils in humans is lacking. Most of the available data comes from in vitro studies or animal models, and few controlled trials have been conducted in people. The traditional use, however, is well documented in ethnobotanical surveys and classical texts.

In summary, the use of Tree Turmeric for boils is primarily justified by traditional practice, with modest supportive evidence from laboratory studies but insufficient clinical data to validate its effectiveness in humans for this specific condition.