Evidence supporting the use of: Common dogwood
For the health condition: Scratches and Abrasions
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Common dogwood (Cornus sanguinea) has a history of traditional use in European folk medicine, although it is not among the most widely cited herbs for wound care. Traditionally, various parts of the plant, especially the bark and leaves, were used externally to assist in the healing of minor skin injuries such as scratches and abrasions. The rationale for its use is typically based on its astringent properties, attributed to tannins and other polyphenolic compounds present in the plant. These astringent properties are believed to help contract tissue, reduce bleeding, and create a protective barrier that may support natural healing of superficial wounds.
Ethnobotanical records from several European regions note the application of dogwood bark or leaf poultices on minor cuts and bruises. However, scientific validation is limited. There are few, if any, modern clinical studies directly examining the efficacy of Common dogwood for scratches or abrasions. The supporting evidence remains largely anecdotal or based on historical herbal texts. Consequently, while there is a tradition of use, the strength of evidence for its effectiveness in wound care is modest and does not meet modern scientific standards for efficacy.
More about Common dogwood
More about Scratches and Abrasions
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beeswax
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chamomile
turmeric
dyer’s woad root
iodine
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lauric acid
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protease
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vitamin C
zinc
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chickweed
paederia foetida
lilac
yarrow
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melaleuca alternifolia
geranium
arnica
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acacia
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Achyranthes
Anserina
Anemone
Aquilegia formosa
Allantoin
Alkanet
Acemannan
Abuta
Alkanna
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Baliospermum
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Blackthorn
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Barbary matrimony vine
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Black root
Bittersweet
Calochortus
Comfrey
Candleberry
Calotropis gigantea
Cattail
Columbine
Cornflower
Common Thatching grass
Common Zinnia
Cynoglossum grande
Cedar
Campylandra fimbriata
Campsiandra angustifolia
Cranesbill
Chinese Thoroughwax
Carrapichinho
Cedrus libani
Ceanothus integerrimus
Cyanthillium cinereum
Castile Soap
Chiococca alba
Cocklebur
Copaiba Oil
Calyptridium umbellatum
Dragon's Blood
Devil's Club
Dwarf Nettle
Davilla rugosa
Deerbrush
Erigeron
Elephant Vine
European hazel
English Elm
Emu Oil
Elkweed
Eupatorium
Elemi
Oak
Polyvinyl alcohol
Snakeroot (unspecified)
Other health conditions supported by Common dogwood
Bruises (healing)Cuts
Inflammation
Scratches and Abrasions
Wounds and Sores