Aloe polysaccharides, particularly acemannan, are key bioactive components in Aloe vera gel and have been studied for their wound healing properties, including the treatment of scratches and abrasions. The scientific rationale for their use is based on in vitro and animal studies, as well as some small-scale human clinical trials. These studies indicate that aloe polysaccharides can promote wound healing by enhancing fibroblast proliferation, stimulating collagen synthesis, and modulating inflammation. Additionally, aloe's polysaccharides have been shown to have moisturizing effects, which may aid in maintaining an optimal environment for skin repair.

Historically, Aloe vera has been used in various traditional medicine systems for treating minor skin injuries, but more recently, scientific studies have attempted to isolate and test its individual components, such as polysaccharides. Clinical evidence is modest but growing. For example, randomized controlled trials have shown that topical Aloe vera gel can accelerate healing of minor wounds and abrasions compared to standard care or placebo. However, the sample sizes are often small, and there is variability in the preparation and concentration of aloe products used, which limits the strength of the evidence.

In summary, there is scientific support, though not yet robust, for the use of aloe polysaccharides in the treatment of scratches and abrasions, with most studies pointing toward faster healing and better symptom relief compared to controls. Nevertheless, more large-scale, well-designed clinical trials are needed to confirm these effects and to standardize dosing and formulation.