Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Milkweed (genus Asclepias) has a history of use in traditional herbal medicine by various Indigenous peoples and folk practitioners in North America. In particular, some species of milkweed were used topically on skin conditions such as warts, ringworm, and occasionally for rashes, which may include eczema-like symptoms. Traditional applications often involved crushing the leaves or stems to extract a milky sap that was then applied directly to affected skin. However, the historical record is fragmentary and does not consistently identify eczema (atopic dermatitis) specifically, as older sources did not use modern dermatological terminology.

Despite these traditional uses, there is a notable lack of scientific research evaluating the efficacy or safety of milkweed for eczema. No well-designed clinical trials or pharmacological studies in humans have been published to substantiate its use for this purpose. Furthermore, milkweed sap contains compounds such as cardiac glycosides, which can be toxic, and may cause irritation or allergic reactions on the skin. Therefore, while there is some evidence of traditional use for general skin ailments, there is little to no direct evidence supporting its effectiveness or safety for eczema.

In summary, the use of milkweed for eczema is based on isolated traditional practices, not on modern scientific validation. Caution is advised due to the potential for toxicity and lack of safety data.

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Products containing Milkweed (unspecified)