Synopsis

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

Rhus coraria, commonly known as sumac, has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, particularly in the Mediterranean, Middle East, and parts of Asia. Traditionally, sumac has been applied externally to help manage and treat ulcerations and wounds. Ethnobotanical records indicate that its astringent, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties were valued for promoting wound healing and reducing infection risk in external ulcers and sores. Preparations often involved creating poultices or washes from the crushed fruits or leaves.

While there is some laboratory evidence suggesting that extracts of Rhus coraria possess antimicrobial and antioxidant properties—factors that could theoretically benefit wound healing—direct clinical or preclinical studies supporting its efficacy in the treatment of external ulcerations are currently limited or lacking. Most of the support for this use comes from traditional knowledge passed down through generations rather than from validated scientific studies. Thus, while the traditional use is well-documented, the overall evidence rating for efficacy remains moderate due to a lack of robust clinical validation.

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