Evidence supporting the use of: Mucin
For the health condition: Scratches and Abrasions
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3
Mucin, a glycoprotein component of mucus, plays a significant role in wound healing, including the treatment of scratches and abrasions. Scientific research has demonstrated that mucins, particularly those derived from snail slime (Helix aspersa), promote epithelialization, modulate inflammation, and provide a moist wound environment—factors critical for efficient healing. Several in vitro and animal studies have shown that mucins can accelerate the migration and proliferation of fibroblasts and keratinocytes, essential cells in skin repair. Additionally, mucin forms a protective barrier that helps prevent infection and desiccation of the wound surface.
There is also emerging clinical evidence supporting the use of topical formulations containing mucin or snail secretion filtrate for superficial skin injuries. For instance, randomized controlled trials and dermatological studies have reported improved healing rates and reduced scar formation in minor wounds treated with mucin-based products compared to standard care. This effect is attributed to the bioactive compounds in mucin, including glycosaminoglycans, enzymes, and antimicrobial peptides, which collectively enhance tissue regeneration.
While more large-scale clinical studies are needed to further validate efficacy, the current body of scientific literature provides moderate support (evidence level 3/5) for the use of mucin in supporting the healing of scratches and abrasions, justifying its inclusion in various wound care products.
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)