Kamala (Mallotus philippensis), a plant whose reddish powder is derived from its fruit glands and hairs, has a long history of use in traditional Ayurvedic and Unani medicine. Traditionally, Kamala has been employed for its anthelmintic (anti-parasitic), antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. In traditional medicine, it has been applied topically to treat skin conditions, including abscesses, ringworm, and other parasitic infections. The use of Kamala for abscesses is therefore rooted in historical and traditional practices, particularly in South Asian herbal medicine.

However, scientific validation for its efficacy in treating abscesses is limited. While some in vitro studies have demonstrated antibacterial and antifungal activity of Kamala extracts, there is a lack of robust clinical trials or direct evidence supporting its effectiveness specifically for abscess management. Most references cite its use based on traditional formulations and ethnobotanical records rather than modern medical studies. Thus, the evidence rating for its use in abscesses is low, reflecting the predominance of traditional rather than scientific support.

In summary, Kamala's use for abscesses is primarily justified by traditional medicinal systems, with minimal scientific corroboration for this specific indication.