Evidence supporting the use of: Gambir
For the health condition: Ulcerations (external)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Gambir (Uncaria gambir) has a long history of traditional use in Southeast Asian medicine, particularly in Malay and Chinese medicinal systems. Traditionally, gambir extracts have been applied externally to treat a variety of skin conditions, including ulcerations, wounds, and sores. The application is often justified by gambir’s high content of catechins and tannins, which are known to possess astringent properties. These compounds can help contract tissue, reduce secretions, and form a protective layer over wounds, potentially promoting healing and reducing infection risk.
However, while there is some experimental evidence suggesting that the polyphenolic compounds in gambir exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities, there is limited direct scientific research specifically evaluating its effectiveness in the treatment of external ulcerations in humans. Most of the evidence remains anecdotal or derived from ethnobotanical reports and traditional pharmacopoeias, rather than controlled clinical trials. As such, the use of gambir for external ulcerations is primarily supported by traditional practices and historical usage, with only modest scientific investigation into 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 Gambir
AbrasionsBleeding (external)
Cuts
Diarrhea
Gingivitis
Inflammation
Injuries
Oral Surgery
Scratches and Abrasions
Ulcerations (external)
Wounds and Sores