Evidence supporting the use of: Copaiba Oil
For the health condition: Itching
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Copaiba oil has been traditionally used in South American folk medicine for a variety of skin conditions, including itching (pruritus). Indigenous communities in the Amazon have applied copaiba oil topically to soothe skin irritations, insect bites, rashes, and minor wounds, attributing anti-inflammatory and antipruritic (anti-itch) properties to the resin. The traditional use is primarily based on empirical observations passed down through generations rather than rigorously documented clinical trials.
From a scientific standpoint, copaiba oil contains a significant amount of beta-caryophyllene, a sesquiterpene known to interact with the CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system, which are involved in modulating inflammation and immune responses. Some in vitro and animal studies suggest that copaiba oil and its constituents may have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, which could indirectly help reduce itching due to skin irritation or mild dermatitis. However, robust clinical trials in humans specifically investigating copaiba oil for itching are lacking. Thus, while there is a plausible mechanism and strong traditional precedent, direct scientific validation for its use in treating itching is limited at present.
In summary, copaiba oil’s use for itching is primarily justified by traditional practices, and while there is some preclinical evidence suggesting potential benefits, more rigorous research is needed for conclusive scientific support.
Other ingredients used for Itching
aloe veramyrobalan
betel
bisabolol
chamomile
turmeric
Japanese sophora
licorice root
marshmallow
peppermint oil
scrophularia root
slippery elm bark
vitamin D
vitamin E
zinc
bentonite
chickweed
typhonium
ferula assafoetida
yarrow
sweetgums
oriental arborvitae
sheep's sorrel
camphor oil
white oak
melaleuca alternifolia
geranium
Avens
Apple Cider Vinegar
Agrimony
Anamu
Abrus
American Liverleaf
Asam gelugor
Allantoin
Alsonia scholaris
Argan nut oil
Amor seco
Arani
Arisaema
Asarum sieboldii
benzyl alcohol
Babchi
Baliospermum
Baphicacanthus cusia
Balsam
Barleria
Brazillian peppertree
Black Nightshade
Calendula
Calotropis gigantea
Clerodendrum trichotomum
coconut oil
Colloid
Cinquefoil
Cocoa Butter
Carry Me Seed
Cornflower
Cajuput
Catechu
Cedar
Calamus
Cyanthillium cinereum
Castor Oil
Carthamus
Copaiba Oil
Citronella
Didymocarpus
DIVI-DIVI
Dwarf Nettle
Davilla rugosa
Dendramine
European Elder
Erodium cicutarium
Emu Oil
Elephant's Head
Euphorbia
Eugenol
Mallow
Oak
Spikenard
Snakeroot (unspecified)
Sandalwood
Sumac
Vervain
Other health conditions supported by Copaiba Oil
AbscessesAcne
Antibiotics (alternatives to)
Arthritis
Athlete's Foot
Bites and Stings
Boils
Bruises (healing)
Burns and Scalds
Canker Sores
Cuts
Dermatitis
Eczema
Fungal Infections
Gingivitis
Infection
Infection (bacterial)
Inflammation
Itching
Jock Itch
Lesions
Lymph Nodes or Glands (swollen)
Mastitis
Pain (general remedies for)
Psoriasis
Rashes and Hives
Scars / Scar Tissue
Scratches and Abrasions
Skin (infections)
Skin Care (general)
Staph Infections