Evidence supporting the use of: Lacquertree
For the health condition: Scratches and Abrasions
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Lacquertree, commonly referring to Toxicodendron vernicifluum or the Chinese lacquer tree, has a history of use in traditional East Asian medicine, particularly in China and Korea. The resin from this tree has been applied in folk remedies for skin conditions, including minor scratches and abrasions. Traditional practitioners believed its astringent and protective properties could aid wound healing and prevent infection. Historical texts and ethnobotanical surveys document the use of lacquer tree sap or extracts for minor wounds, sometimes as a topical application mixed with other medicinal substances.
However, there is little modern scientific research validating these traditional claims, and the evidence is mainly anecdotal or based on historical usage rather than controlled clinical studies. Moreover, the sap of the lacquer tree contains urushiol, a compound known to cause severe allergic reactions in many individuals, which raises significant safety concerns regarding its direct application to broken skin.
In summary, while the use of Lacquertree for scratches and abrasions is rooted in tradition, the supporting evidence is limited, and potential risks may outweigh benefits. Modern medical guidance generally discourages its use for this purpose due to the risk of contact dermatitis and lack of robust scientific validation.
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
Elephant Vine
European hazel
Emu Oil
Elkweed
Eupatorium
Elemi
Polyvinyl alcohol
Snakeroot (unspecified)
Other health conditions supported by Lacquertree
AbrasionsAbscesses
Bruises (healing)
Burns and Scalds
Cuts
Injuries
Scratches and Abrasions
Wounds and Sores