Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Smooth Alder (Alnus serrulata) has been traditionally used by Native American groups and early settlers in North America for various medicinal purposes, including as a topical treatment for scratches, abrasions, and other minor skin injuries. The bark and leaves were often prepared as poultices or infusions and applied to the skin, with the belief that the plant's astringent properties could help to cleanse wounds, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. The astringency is primarily attributed to its tannin content, which can constrict tissue and may help reduce minor bleeding or irritation associated with superficial wounds.

Despite its documented traditional use, there is little to no scientific research directly evaluating the efficacy of Smooth Alder for treating scratches and abrasions. Most available information comes from ethnobotanical records and herbal compendia that describe its historical applications, rather than controlled clinical studies. While related species in the Alnus genus have demonstrated antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties in laboratory settings, these findings cannot be conclusively extrapolated to Smooth Alder or to human clinical outcomes. Therefore, while its traditional use is well-documented, scientific validation for this specific application is lacking.

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