Alchornea cordifolia, commonly known as Christmas bush, has been traditionally used in African medicine for a variety of infections, including those involving the skin. Recent scientific studies have provided some validation for its use against Staphylococcus aureus, including methicillin-resistant strains (MRSA). In vitro research has demonstrated that extracts from the leaves, roots, and stem bark of Alchornea cordifolia possess antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus. The active constituents are believed to include flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and alkaloids, which may disrupt bacterial cell membranes or interfere with bacterial metabolism.

Several peer-reviewed studies have reported minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of Alchornea cordifolia extracts that suggest moderate effectiveness against S. aureus, though typically less potent than conventional antibiotics. The evidence is mostly preclinical, based on laboratory (in vitro) assays, with limited or no human clinical trials directly assessing its efficacy for staph infections. Thus, while the traditional use is being increasingly validated by scientific research, the evidence is not yet strong enough for clinical recommendations. The potential for resistance development and the lack of toxicity data in humans are also areas that require further research.

In summary, the use of Alchornea cordifolia for staph infections is supported by both traditional practices and emerging scientific evidence, though the latter is still incomplete and primarily limited to laboratory experiments.