Evidence supporting the use of: Devil's Club
For the health condition: Scratches and Abrasions

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Synopsis

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

Devil's Club (Oplopanax horridus) has a long history of traditional use among Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest, including for treating minor wounds such as scratches and abrasions. Ethnobotanical records document the topical application of Devil's Club poultices, infusions, or salves for skin injuries, sores, and infections. The plant’s inner bark or roots, often mashed or boiled, were applied directly to the skin to promote healing and reduce infection.

Scientific validation is limited. While laboratory studies have identified antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory compounds in Devil's Club extracts, such as polyynes and phenylpropanoids, there are no clinical trials or robust preclinical studies directly demonstrating efficacy for wound healing in humans. The evidence for its use in treating scratches and abrasions thus rests mainly on traditional knowledge and practice, supported by some preliminary pharmacological findings. As such, the strength of the evidence is moderate within traditional contexts but remains weak from a modern scientific perspective.

In summary, Devil's Club is traditionally used for minor skin injuries, with some supporting phytochemical evidence suggesting potential benefits, but there is a lack of direct scientific validation for its effectiveness on scratches and abrasions.

More about Devil's Club
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Products containing Devil's Club

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