Hemlock spruce (Picea canadensis or Picea glauca) has been traditionally used by some Indigenous peoples and early settlers in North America for various medicinal purposes, including as a topical treatment for minor wounds such as scratches and abrasions. The inner bark and resin of the tree were sometimes applied directly or made into poultices, believed to facilitate healing and act as a protective barrier over wounds. Ethnobotanical records, such as those compiled by Daniel Moerman, document this use among certain groups, notably in the form of poultices or washes.

However, there is little to no high-quality scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of Hemlock spruce for treating scratches or abrasions. While the resin contains some antimicrobial compounds and has astringent properties, which could theoretically benefit minor wound healing, these effects have not been rigorously studied in clinical settings. No modern clinical trials or systematic reviews substantiate its use for this purpose.

In summary, the use of Hemlock spruce for scratches and abrasions is primarily justified by traditional ethnobotanical practices, with minimal direct scientific validation. The evidence rating therefore remains low, reflecting the lack of robust research on safety and efficacy for this specific application.