Vietnamese sophora (Sophora flavescens), known locally as "Khổ sâm," has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems of East Asia, including Vietnam and China. For abrasions and other minor wounds, traditional healers have applied decoctions or powders made from the root to the skin, believing it can reduce inflammation, promote healing, and prevent infection. These uses are primarily based on empirical knowledge and centuries-old herbal texts rather than modern clinical studies.

The rationale for using Vietnamese sophora in abrasions is largely attributed to its known properties in traditional practice: it is considered to have "heat-clearing," "detoxifying," and "antimicrobial" effects. Some laboratory studies have demonstrated that extracts of Sophora flavescens possess antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities, and its alkaloids (such as matrine and oxymatrine) are thought to contribute to these effects. However, there is a lack of direct clinical evidence or robust controlled trials confirming its efficacy for treating skin abrasions in humans. Therefore, while the traditional use is well-documented and some pharmacological actions are plausible, the overall evidence base is limited and does not meet the standards of modern scientific validation.