Evidence supporting the use of: Babassu
For the health condition: Scratches and Abrasions
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Babassu oil (derived from the seeds of the Attalea speciosa palm, native to Brazil) is traditionally used by indigenous peoples and local communities for a variety of skin ailments, including minor scratches and abrasions. The oil is prized in folk medicine for its soothing, emollient, and protective qualities. Historical accounts and ethnobotanical surveys document its topical application to support the healing of superficial wounds, reduce discomfort, and protect the skin from infection. These uses are largely attributed to Babassu oil’s high content of lauric and myristic acids, which can impart mild antimicrobial effects and form a protective barrier over the skin.
However, direct scientific studies specifically investigating Babassu oil’s efficacy in treating scratches or abrasions are limited. Some laboratory research has demonstrated Babassu oil’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activity in vitro, but clinical trials in humans are lacking. Thus, while traditional use is well documented, and there is minimal preliminary scientific support for its protective properties, substantial clinical validation is absent. Its use for scratches and abrasions remains primarily justified by traditional practices rather than robust scientific evidence.
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
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
Oak
Polyvinyl alcohol
Snakeroot (unspecified)
Other health conditions supported by Babassu
ArthritisBurns and Scalds
Cuts
Inflammation
Scratches and Abrasions
Wounds and Sores