Evidence supporting the use of: Assam indigo
For the health condition: Abrasions
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Assam indigo (Strobilanthes cusia) has a long-standing traditional use in various Asian medical systems, particularly in Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It is traditionally applied topically to support the healing of abrasions, wounds, and other skin injuries. Historical texts and ethnobotanical surveys document its use as an ingredient in poultices, ointments, and washes intended to reduce inflammation, promote wound healing, and prevent infection. The rationale for using Assam indigo in abrasions is largely based on its reputed anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and astringent properties, which are described in traditional literature and passed down through generations.
However, the scientific validation for these uses is limited. Some laboratory studies have identified antimicrobial constituents in the plant, such as indigo and indirubin, which may inhibit the growth of certain bacteria. There is also some in vitro evidence suggesting anti-inflammatory activity. Despite these findings, there are very few well-designed clinical studies or robust preclinical models that directly examine the efficacy of Assam indigo for treating abrasions specifically. As such, the use of Assam indigo for abrasions remains primarily rooted in tradition, with a modest level of supporting evidence derived from laboratory research but lacking comprehensive clinical trials. Therefore, while it is a common traditional remedy, more scientific investigation is needed to confirm its safety and effectiveness for this indication.
Other ingredients used for Abrasions
aloe verabeeswax
bisabolol
chamomile
turmeric
glycerin
goldenseal
gotu kola
hyaluronic acid
lavender
licorice root
microbial enzymes (proprietary)
mucin
plantain
protease
purified silver
slippery elm bark
vitamin C
zinc
chickweed
xanthium (cockleburs)
shen-chu
nut grass
clerodendrum indicum
paederia foetida
boxthorne
yarrow
moss
myrrh
siler root
oriental arborvitae
assam indigo
paw paw
white oak
melaleuca alternifolia
geranium
arnica
sea salt
Ash
Avens
Asiaticoside
acacia
Agave
Agrimony
Antirrhinum majus
Achyranthes
Anamu
Abrus
Alchornea
Alchemilla
Ajuga
Aquilegia formosa
Allantoin
Alkanet
Alsonia scholaris
Ampelopsis
Abuta
Alkanna
Bee Propolis
Bai Ji
Blackthorn
Balsam
Blackbrush
Butea monosperma
Barleria
Brazillian peppertree
Bee hive
Bloodroot
Benzoin
Banyan
Bletilla
Bee products
Bombax
Boerhavia diffusa
Calochortus
Comfrey
Centella triterpenes
Calendula
Calotropis gigantea
Colloidal Silver
Capillary Artemisia
Cinquefoil
Cattail
Cocoa Butter
Cymbidium goeringii
Cornflower
Cowherb
Centella asiatica
Celandine
Centipeda
Carrapichinho
Cedrus libani
Castile Soap
Cynodon dactylon
Cocklebur
Cynanchum
Casearia sylvestris
Didymocarpus
Dragon's Blood
Davilla rugosa
Epidermal Growth Factor
Erigeron
Elephant Vine
Erodium cicutarium
English Elm
Elephant's Head
Euphorbia
fibroblast growth factor
Little ironweed
Oak
Polyvinyl alcohol
Other health conditions supported by assam indigo
Abdominal PainAbrasions
Abscesses
Burns and Scalds
Cuts
Inflammation
Rashes and Hives
Ulcerations (external)
Wounds and Sores