Evidence supporting the use of: Glyceryl monolaurate
For the health condition: Scratches and Abrasions
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3
Glyceryl monolaurate (GML), also known as monolaurin, is a naturally occurring monoglyceride derived from lauric acid. Its use in supporting or treating scratches and abrasions is primarily justified by scientific evidence, though the level of evidence is moderate and largely preclinical. GML exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria, viruses, and some fungi, which is well-documented in laboratory studies. For example, research has shown that GML can disrupt the cell membranes of Gram-positive bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes, both of which are common causes of skin infections following minor injuries.
Several in vitro and animal studies have demonstrated that GML can reduce microbial colonization on the skin and promote a healthier wound environment, potentially assisting the healing process by preventing infection. There is also some evidence that GML can modulate inflammation, another factor relevant to wound healing. However, robust clinical trials in humans specifically evaluating GML for scratches and abrasions are limited. Its inclusion in some topical formulations for minor wounds is often based on its antimicrobial properties and favorable safety profile. Despite promising laboratory evidence, the absence of large-scale human studies limits the strength of recommendation.
In summary, the scientific rationale for using glyceryl monolaurate in the management of scratches and abrasions is supported by preclinical evidence of antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, but direct clinical validation remains limited.
More about Glyceryl monolaurate
More about Scratches and Abrasions
Other ingredients used for Scratches and Abrasions
aloe verabayberry
beeswax
bisabolol
black walnut
chamomile
turmeric
dyer’s woad root
iodine
Japanese sophora
lauric acid
mucin
protease
slippery elm bark
vitamin C
zinc
parthenium
chickweed
paederia foetida
lilac
yarrow
moss
oriental arborvitae
tartarian aster
camphor oil
cleavers
wood betony
white oak
melaleuca alternifolia
geranium
arnica
Asclepias cordifolia
acacia
Agrimony
Antirrhinum majus
Achyranthes
Anserina
Anemone
Aquilegia formosa
Allantoin
Alkanet
Acemannan
Abuta
Alkanna
Bee Propolis
Babchi
Bai Ji
Baliospermum
Black spruce
Blackthorn
Bleeding Heart
Bridges' Penstemon
Black-Eyed Susan
Blackbrush
Brazillian peppertree
Bisabolene
Bloodroot
Benzoin
Begonia fimbristipula
Black Poplar
Bletilla
Barbary matrimony vine
Bush Monkey Flower
Babassu
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 Glyceryl monolaurate
AcneAntibiotics (alternatives to)
Athlete's Foot
Colds (antiviral)
Dermatitis
Fungal Infections
Gingivitis
Herpes
Impetigo
Infection
Infection (bacterial)
Jock Itch
Oral Surgery
Scratches and Abrasions
Staph Infections
Thrush
Wounds and Sores