Evidence supporting the use of: Cotton
For the health condition: Scratches and Abrasions

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Cotton has been traditionally used as a material for dressing and protecting scratches and abrasions, rather than as an active ingredient for healing. Its primary role is as a wound dressing: cotton wool or pads are commonly applied to superficial wounds to absorb exudate, protect the wound from contamination, and provide a cushioning barrier. Historically, cotton's widespread availability, softness, and absorbency made it a preferred material for first aid and wound care. However, the traditional use is not based on intrinsic healing properties of cotton itself; rather, it is valued for its physical characteristics as a dressing material. There is limited scientific evidence to suggest that cotton has any active therapeutic effect on the healing of scratches or abrasions. In fact, modern wound care often cautions against direct application of loose cotton fibers to wounds, as fibers may adhere to the wound bed and complicate healing or increase infection risk. Today, sterile, non-adherent dressings or synthetic materials are often favored over traditional cotton for wound management. In summary, while cotton has a long history of use as a wound dressing, its role is more practical than therapeutic, and scientific validation regarding its healing efficacy is limited.

More about Cotton
More about Scratches and Abrasions

Other health conditions supported by Cotton

Scratches and Abrasions
Wounds and Sores

Products containing Cotton

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.