Evidence supporting the use of: Black Alder
For the health condition: Ulcerations (external)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Black Alder (Alnus glutinosa) has a history of traditional use in European herbal medicine, particularly for the topical treatment of ulcerations, wounds, and skin conditions. Historical sources from the 18th and 19th centuries, such as King’s American Dispensatory and various British herbal texts, cite the application of Black Alder bark decoctions or infusions as a wash or poultice for ulcers and chronic skin eruptions. The bark contains tannins, which possess astringent properties thought to help dry out wounds and promote healing, as well as anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial compounds. However, scientific validation for these uses is lacking. While some in vitro studies suggest Alnus species have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory constituents, there is little to no direct clinical research on Black Alder's effectiveness for external ulcerations in humans. Modern herbal references continue to mention its traditional use, but this is based largely on historical precedent rather than rigorous scientific studies. Thus, the justification for using Black Alder for external ulcerations is primarily traditional, with a moderate level of historical but limited scientific evidence to support its efficacy.
Other ingredients used for Ulcerations (external)
aloe verabisabolol
dyer’s woad root
Japanese sophora
lactoperoxidase
lauric acid
marshmallow
protease
vitamin C
zinc
rubia cordifolia
yarrow
moss
amber
birch
sheep's sorrel
assam indigo
camphor oil
stillingia
wood betony
white oak
melaleuca alternifolia
arnica
Ardisia
acacia
Agrimony
Antirrhinum majus
Achyranthes
Abrus
Alchornea
Alchemilla
Ajuga
Aucubin
American Liverleaf
Aquilegia formosa
Allantoin
Alkanet
Ampelopsis
Acemannan
Asarabacca
Abuta
Alkanna
Arisaema
Butter
Bai Ji
Baliospermum
Baphicacanthus cusia
Bleeding Heart
Black-Eyed Susan
Bloodroot
Benzoin
Borate
Bletilla
Boxwood
Comfrey
Celandine
Cranesbill
Cedrus libani
Chiococca alba
Cocklebur
Dragon's Blood
Dianthrone
Erigeron
English Elm
European Field Elm
Echinodorus
Elaeagnus glabra
Oak
Other health conditions supported by Black Alder
AbrasionsAbscesses
Afterbirth Pain
Bleeding (external)
Boils
Bruises (healing)
Cuts
Inflammation
Injuries
Scratches and Abrasions
Ulcerations (external)
Wounds and Sores