Bletilla striata, commonly known as Hyacinth Bletilla or Chinese ground orchid, has been used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for centuries, primarily for its reputed ability to "stop bleeding," reduce swelling, and promote the healing of wounds and lesions. The tuber of Bletilla striata is often included in herbal remedies for skin injuries, ulcers, and various lesions, especially those that are non-healing or involve tissue damage. Traditional texts such as the Shennong Bencao Jing and subsequent materia medica record its use in topical applications, often in powdered form, to help close wounds and manage ulcers by forming a protective layer and possibly aiding tissue regeneration.

While modern pharmacological studies are limited, there is some preliminary in vitro and animal research that suggests the polysaccharides in Bletilla striata may have wound-healing, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects, potentially supporting its traditional use. However, these studies are not extensive or conclusive enough to be considered robust scientific validation. Thus, the primary justification for Bletilla’s use in treating or supporting lesions remains rooted in traditional practice, with only low-level (preclinical) scientific support to date.