Siberian cocklebur (Xanthium sibiricum) has a history of use in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), where it is known as "Cang Er Zi." In TCM, the plant is primarily used to treat nasal congestion, sinusitis, and certain dermatological conditions. Reports of its use for external ulcerations are present in some traditional texts and materia medica, where preparations made from the seeds or the whole plant are sometimes applied topically to help with sores, boils, or ulcerations of the skin. The rationale in traditional practice is based on its purported "wind-damp-dispelling" and "toxin-clearing" properties.

However, there is little to no modern scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of Siberian cocklebur for treating external ulcerations. Most modern research on the plant focuses on its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antimicrobial potential, but clinical trials or robust pharmacological studies specifically targeting ulcer healing are lacking. Additionally, the plant contains toxic compounds such as carboxyatractyloside, which can cause severe adverse effects if not properly prepared. As such, its use is generally not recommended outside of traditional frameworks and should be approached with caution. The evidence supporting its use for external ulcerations remains primarily anecdotal and based on traditional practice rather than scientific validation.