Candleberry (Myrica cerifera), also known as bayberry, has been used in traditional medicine for various purposes, including as a topical application for minor skin injuries such as scratches and abrasions. Historical records, especially from Native American and early American herbal traditions, indicate that preparations made from the bark or leaves were sometimes applied to skin wounds to promote healing or as an astringent. The rationale was often based on the astringent properties attributed to tannins present in the plant, which were believed to help "dry" wounds and support healing.

However, there is very limited modern scientific research validating the efficacy of Candleberry for this purpose. No well-designed clinical trials or pharmacological studies have directly demonstrated its effectiveness in treating scratches or abrasions. The available evidence is largely anecdotal and rooted in folk practices, without rigorous scientific support. Therefore, while its use for minor skin injuries is justified primarily by tradition, the strength of supporting evidence is weak.