Evidence supporting the use of: Loess
For the health condition: Scratches and Abrasions
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1
Loess, a fine, silt-rich sediment, has been used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for centuries, including topical applications for minor wounds such as scratches and abrasions. Historical TCM texts describe loess (commonly referred to as "Huangtu") as an agent for drying dampness and aiding wound healing, often applied as a powder or paste directly to the skin. The rationale is largely based on its absorptive properties and its perceived ability to promote tissue regeneration and reduce inflammation according to traditional theory. However, there is minimal scientific research specifically validating the efficacy of loess for treating scratches and abrasions. Modern studies on loess focus mostly on its mineral content and environmental impact rather than medical uses. No well-controlled clinical trials or peer-reviewed studies have established its safety or effectiveness for skin injuries. Therefore, while its use is justified by tradition and historical texts, the level of evidence supporting its use for scratches and abrasions is very weak, and modern clinical guidance does not endorse it. Additionally, concerns exist about contamination or infection risks from applying unsterilized earth materials to open wounds.
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)