Scrophularia ningpoensis, also known as Ningpo figwort or Chinese figwort, has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for various conditions, including those affecting the skin. In TCM, S. ningpoensis is commonly used to "clear heat," "cool the blood," and "detoxify," concepts that often correspond to treating inflammatory skin disorders such as boils, carbuncles, and other types of skin infections or abscesses. The root is considered particularly effective for "heat toxin" skin eruptions and is frequently included in formulae designed for this purpose.

The justification for its use in skin infections is thus primarily traditional. While some modern in vitro studies suggest that extracts of Scrophularia species may possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, the evidence specific to S. ningpoensis and human skin infections is limited and mostly preclinical. There are no robust clinical studies or systematic reviews that confirm its effectiveness or safety for this indication in humans. Nevertheless, its use in traditional medicine is well documented in classical texts and contemporary TCM practice, which warrants a moderate evidence rating based on historical application, but not on modern scientific validation.