Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens) has a history of use in traditional herbal medicine, particularly in European and some folk practices. Its leaves and bark were occasionally applied externally, including for ulcerations and skin lesions. The rationale behind its use stemmed from its perceived astringent and antiseptic qualities, as well as its bitter constituents. However, documentation of this use is limited mostly to older herbal texts and does not feature prominently in mainstream traditional medicine systems such as Traditional Chinese Medicine or Ayurveda.

Scientific validation for boxwood’s effectiveness in treating external ulcerations is lacking. There are no rigorous clinical studies or pharmacological investigations that confirm its safety or efficacy for this indication. In fact, boxwood contains alkaloids (notably buxine) that are considered toxic, and its use, especially internally, is discouraged in modern herbal practice. Modern references do not recommend boxwood for wound or ulcer care, and its toxic profile further diminishes its suitability for such uses.

In summary, the use of boxwood for external ulcerations is rooted in minor traditional practices with minimal supporting evidence, and there is no modern scientific support for its efficacy or safety in this context.