Acemannan is a polysaccharide derived from the inner leaf gel of Aloe vera. Its use for supporting the healing of scratches and abrasions is supported by a moderate level of scientific evidence, mostly from in vitro and animal studies, as well as a limited number of human clinical trials. Acemannan has been shown to promote wound healing through several mechanisms, including stimulating macrophage activity, enhancing fibroblast proliferation, and increasing collagen deposition. It also displays anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which may help reduce infection risk and facilitate the repair process in superficial skin injuries.

A number of animal studies have demonstrated accelerated wound closure and improved re-epithelialization in acemannan-treated wounds compared to controls. For example, a study published in the Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association (1994) found that acemannan enhanced wound healing in diabetic rats. Human trials are fewer, but topical Aloe vera gel, which contains acemannan as a principal active component, has shown some benefit in reducing healing time for minor burns and abrasions. However, results are mixed and often limited by small sample sizes and methodological differences.

In summary, there is a plausible scientific rationale and some evidence—mainly preclinical and limited clinical data—supporting the use of acemannan for scratches and abrasions, but more rigorous human studies are needed for stronger validation.