Asian Plantain (Plantago asiatica) has a long history of use in traditional East Asian medicine, including Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), for the management of skin infections such as carbuncles, boils, and abscesses. In TCM, Plantain seeds and leaves are believed to "clear heat" and "eliminate toxins," making them suitable for treating inflammatory skin conditions. Topical poultices or washes made from the fresh plant are often applied directly to the affected area to reduce swelling and promote healing, while decoctions may be administered internally as part of a broader herbal regimen.

Modern scientific research on Plantago asiatica primarily focuses on its general anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and wound-healing properties. Laboratory studies have demonstrated that extracts of Plantago species possess antibacterial activity against certain pathogens and can modulate inflammatory responses in vitro. However, there is a lack of high-quality clinical trials specifically assessing the effectiveness of Asian Plantain for carbuncles in humans. The evidence supporting its use for this purpose is therefore rated as moderate within traditional frameworks but limited by contemporary scientific standards.

In summary, the use of Asian Plantain for carbuncles is primarily justified by traditional medical systems, with some supporting evidence from basic scientific studies on its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, though rigorous clinical validation is lacking.