Smooth Alder (Alnus serrulata) has a history of traditional use among Native American groups and early settlers in North America, who employed various parts of the plant, particularly the bark, for the treatment of skin ailments, including abrasions, wounds, and sores. The bark was often made into poultices or decoctions and applied externally to promote healing and reduce inflammation. This traditional use likely stems from the observable astringent properties of the bark, which can help contract tissues and potentially control minor bleeding or irritation associated with abrasions.

However, there is very limited scientific research directly investigating the efficacy or safety of Smooth Alder preparations for abrasions, and no well-controlled clinical studies have validated these traditional claims. Phytochemical analyses indicate the presence of tannins and other polyphenolic compounds in alder bark, which could theoretically account for some of the astringent and antimicrobial properties noted anecdotally. Despite this, the quality and quantity of scientific evidence supporting the use of Smooth Alder for abrasions is minimal, and its use remains rooted primarily in traditional herbal medicine practices rather than in modern pharmacological validation.