Evidence supporting the use of: Asclepias cordifolia
For the health condition: Scratches and Abrasions
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Asclepias cordifolia, commonly known as heartleaf milkweed, has a history of use in Indigenous North American herbal medicine, primarily among Native American groups. Traditional ethnobotanical records indicate that various Asclepias species, including A. cordifolia, were sometimes used externally for skin conditions such as scratches, abrasions, and minor wounds. Preparations often involved using poultices or infusions made from the leaves or roots, which were then applied directly to the affected area. The rationale for such use was largely empirical, based on observation and the plant’s latex, which might have provided a protective barrier or mild antimicrobial properties. However, it is important to note that no high-quality clinical studies or rigorous scientific investigations have validated the efficacy or safety of Asclepias cordifolia for treating scratches or abrasions. Furthermore, the latex of Asclepias species can be irritating to the skin and potentially toxic if misused. Therefore, while historical and traditional use is documented, there is limited evidence beyond anecdote and custom, and use of this plant for topical wound care is not supported by modern medical practice or pharmacological studies.
More about Asclepias cordifolia
More about Scratches and Abrasions
Other ingredients used for Scratches and Abrasions
aloe verabayberry
beeswax
bisabolol
black walnut
chamomile
turmeric
dyer’s woad root
iodine
Japanese sophora
lauric acid
mucin
protease
slippery elm bark
vitamin C
zinc
parthenium
chickweed
paederia foetida
lilac
yarrow
moss
oriental arborvitae
tartarian aster
camphor oil
cleavers
wood betony
white oak
melaleuca alternifolia
geranium
arnica
Asclepias cordifolia
acacia
Agrimony
Antirrhinum majus
Achyranthes
Anserina
Anemone
Aquilegia formosa
Allantoin
Alkanet
Acemannan
Abuta
Alkanna
Bee Propolis
Babchi
Bai Ji
Baliospermum
Black spruce
Blackthorn
Bleeding Heart
Bridges' Penstemon
Black-Eyed Susan
Blackbrush
Brazillian peppertree
Bisabolene
Bloodroot
Benzoin
Begonia fimbristipula
Bindweed
Black Poplar
Bletilla
Barbary matrimony vine
Bush Monkey Flower
Babassu
Black root
Bittersweet
Calochortus
Comfrey
Candleberry
Calotropis gigantea
Cattail
Columbine
Cornflower
Common Thatching grass
Common Zinnia
Cynoglossum grande
Cedar
Campylandra fimbriata
Campsiandra angustifolia
Cranesbill
Chinese Thoroughwax
Carrapichinho
Cedrus libani
Ceanothus integerrimus
Cyanthillium cinereum
Castile Soap
Chiococca alba
Cocklebur
Copaiba Oil
Calyptridium umbellatum
Dragon's Blood
Devil's Club
Dwarf Nettle
Davilla rugosa
Deerbrush
Erigeron
Elephant Vine
European hazel
English Elm
Emu Oil
Elkweed
Eupatorium
Elemi
Fiesta Flower
Figwort
Formosan Sweet-Gum
Fleabane
Fireweed
Fir
Four leaved grass
Gleditsia
Glycerite
Glyceryl monolaurate
Gambir
Genipa americana
Golden Ragwort
Golden Willow
Oak
Polyvinyl alcohol
Snakeroot (unspecified)
Other health conditions supported by Asclepias cordifolia
AbscessesBites and Stings
Cuts
Injuries
Scratches and Abrasions
Wounds and Sores