Scrapes, Cuts, and Wounds: natural remedies and the evidence behind them
20 natural approaches to Scrapes, Cuts, and Wounds, graded by evidence — including Manuka Honey, Honey and Aloe Vera Topical.
20 options1 graded A1 graded C18 traditional or ungraded
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You want to protect a fresh minor wound, and medical-grade manuka honey is the natural option with the strongest clinical track record for keeping wounds moist and clean while they close.
Honey creates a moist, low-pH, high-sugar environment that inhibits bacterial growth and supports the skin's own repair process; manuka adds methylglyoxal, its main antibacterial compound.
Dose or use Use a sterile, medical-grade (wound-care) manuka honey or honey-impregnated dressing: apply a thin layer to the wound or dressing pad, cover with a clean bandage, and change daily or when soiled.
Key study Systematic review (2015, PMID 25742878): Cochrane review of 26 trials found topical honey healed partial-thickness burns and infected post-operative wounds faster than some conventional dressings; evidence for other acute wounds was mixed.
EvidenceSupported by controlled trialsTime to resultsMinor wounds typically close within 5-10 days with good basic care.
Caution: Use only sterile medical-grade honey on broken skin — pantry honey is not sterile. Avoid with bee or honey allergy. Seek care for deep or dirty wounds, bites or punctures, any wound with diabetes or poor circulation, or if redness spreads, the wound weeps pus, or you develop fever.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use classical
Traditional soother for shallow skin damage
Why it may be relevant
Once your fresh wound is cleaned and bleeding has stopped, aloe can calm the sting and keep the shallow damaged surface hydrated.
Aloe gel is mostly water plus polysaccharides that hydrate the wound surface and may ease inflammation — moist wounds generally heal more comfortably than dried-out ones.
Dose or use After cleaning, once bleeding has stopped, apply a thin layer of pure aloe vera gel (alcohol- and fragrance-free) to the shallow wound and surrounding skin 2-3 times daily; cover with a clean bandage.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use across more than one tradition · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsSoothing is felt within minutes; minor wounds typically close in 5-10 days.Traditional useClassical use across multiple traditions
Caution: Some people develop contact allergy to aloe — stop if redness or itching worsens. Use only on shallow surface wounds, never deep or gaping ones. Spreading redness, warmth, pus, or fever means infection: see a clinician.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use classical
Classic herbal salve for scrapes and cuts
Why it may be relevant
For a fresh minor wound you've already cleaned, calendula is one of the longest-used herbal dressings for everyday scrapes and cuts.
Calendula flowers contain triterpenes and flavonoids with anti-inflammatory and mild antimicrobial actions in laboratory studies; an ointment also keeps the wound edge supple and protected.
Dose or use Apply calendula ointment or cream in a thin layer to the cleaned minor wound and surrounding skin 2-3 times daily; cover with a clean bandage if the area rubs on clothing.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use across more than one tradition · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsMinor wounds typically close in 5-10 days; soothing effects within a day or two.Traditional useClassical use across multiple traditions
Caution: Avoid if allergic to ragweed, daisies, or other Asteraceae plants. Stop if a rash develops. Not a substitute for medical care in deep, dirty, or bite wounds, and see a clinician for any signs of infection.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Gentle cleaning — the most important first step
Why it may be relevant
Your wound is fresh, and careful cleaning right now does more to prevent problems than any remedy you apply afterward.
Rinsing physically removes dirt and bacteria. A mild saline flush is gentler on healing tissue than harsh antiseptics like hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, which can damage the very cells doing the repair.
Dose or use First rinse the wound under clean running water. If you want to flush further, dissolve 1/2 teaspoon of salt in 1 cup of boiled, fully cooled water, pour it gently over the area, then pat dry with clean gauze. Make it fresh each time; do not reuse.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsImmediate — cleaning is a one-time step, repeated only if the wound gets dirty again.Traditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: For minor surface wounds only. Deep, gaping, or heavily bleeding wounds, animal or human bites, punctures, or anything with embedded debris need professional care — do not try to flush those yourself. If the wound was dirty and your tetanus vaccination is not current, contact a clinician.
Your minor wound is dragging its feet — a medical-grade honey dressing keeps it moist, clean, and protected, the conditions slow wounds need to get moving again.
Honey maintains a moist healing environment and suppresses bacterial growth through its acidity, sugar content, and (in manuka) methylglyoxal — bacterial load is a common reason minor wounds stall.
Dose or use Apply a thin layer of sterile, medical-grade manuka honey to the wound or dressing pad, cover with a clean bandage, and change daily or when soiled.
Key study Systematic review (2015, PMID 25742878): Cochrane review of 26 trials found topical honey healed partial-thickness burns and infected post-operative wounds faster than some conventional dressings; evidence for other acute wounds was mixed.
EvidenceSupported by controlled trialsTime to resultsA minor wound should show visible progress within days; if it hasn't clearly improved in 1-2 weeks, get it examined.
Caution: Slow healing plus diabetes, poor circulation, or steroid use needs professional assessment — don't self-treat. Use only sterile medical-grade honey; avoid with bee or honey allergy. Spreading redness, warmth, pus, or fever means infection: see a clinician promptly.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use recognised
Wounds can't rebuild without protein
Why it may be relevant
If your wound is closing slowly and your appetite or protein intake has been poor, inadequate protein is a plausible and fixable contributor.
Every stage of wound repair — new blood vessels, collagen, skin cells, immune defense — is built from amino acids. When protein intake is low, the body deprioritizes wound repair.
Dose or use Review your intake with a clinician or dietitian; most adults do well aiming for a protein source at each meal (eggs, dairy, fish, meat, legumes, tofu), with higher needs during healing, illness, or older age.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceNot yet assessed · We have not reviewed the literature for this oneTime to resultsWith restored intake, healing capacity typically improves over 2-6 weeks.Traditional useRecognised traditional use
Caution: Unintentional weight loss, swelling in the legs, or hair and nail changes alongside slow healing deserve a medical workup. People with kidney disease should get individual protein guidance before increasing intake.
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Nutrient gap worth checking
Vitamin C Deficiency
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use recognised
Collagen repair depends on vitamin C
Why it may be relevant
Slow wound healing (along with easy bruising and bleeding gums) is a hallmark of low vitamin C, because collagen — the scaffolding of a healing wound — can't be made without it.
Vitamin C is an essential cofactor for the enzymes that cross-link collagen. Even marginal deficiency, common in people who eat few fruits and vegetables or who smoke, can impair wound repair.
Dose or use Ask your clinician about assessing vitamin C intake or levels. Prioritize citrus, berries, peppers, and leafy greens daily, and supplement only as advised.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceNot yet assessed · We have not reviewed the literature for this oneTime to resultsIf intake was low, tissue effects typically improve over 2-4 weeks of restored intake.Traditional useRecognised traditional use
Caution: Slow healing has many causes — deficiency should be confirmed, not assumed. Bleeding gums, easy bruising, and joint pain alongside slow healing warrant a medical review. Infection signs need prompt care.
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Nutrient gap worth checking
Zinc Deficiency
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use recognised
Slow healing is a classic sign of low zinc
Why it may be relevant
A wound that heals slower than expected is one of the textbook signs of inadequate zinc, since zinc is required for cell division and tissue repair.
Zinc is a cofactor for enzymes involved in DNA synthesis, protein building, and immune defense at the wound site; when intake is low, repair capacity drops. Correcting a true deficiency restores it — extra zinc beyond adequacy doesn't add more.
Dose or use Ask your clinician about assessing zinc status. Emphasize zinc-rich foods (oysters, meat, pumpkin seeds, legumes) and supplement only as advised.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceNot yet assessed · We have not reviewed the literature for this oneTime to resultsIf a deficiency is corrected, healing capacity typically improves over 2-6 weeks.Traditional useRecognised traditional use
Caution: Don't assume deficiency — confirm it. Long-term zinc above 40 mg/day can cause copper deficiency. A wound that stays open, enlarges, or shows spreading redness, pus, or fever needs medical evaluation, especially with diabetes or circulation problems.
Scrapes remove the top layer of skin over a wide area, and a honey dressing keeps that raw surface moist and protected — the conditions it needs to re-grow skin.
Honey's moist, antibacterial environment supports re-epithelialization; this is the wound type closest to the burn and superficial-wound evidence in clinical trials.
Dose or use After cleaning out all grit under running water, apply sterile medical-grade manuka honey to a non-stick dressing pad, place over the scrape, and change daily or when soiled.
Key study Systematic review (2015, PMID 25742878): Cochrane review of 26 trials found topical honey healed partial-thickness burns and infected post-operative wounds faster than some conventional dressings; evidence for other acute wounds was mixed.
EvidenceSupported by controlled trialsTime to resultsSuperficial scrapes typically re-surface in 5-10 days.
Caution: All embedded grit must come out — if you can't remove it, a clinician should, both for healing and tetanus risk. Use only sterile medical-grade honey; avoid with bee or honey allergy. See a clinician for spreading redness, pus, or fever, or if you have diabetes or poor circulation.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use classical
Traditional soother for shallow skin damage
Why it may be relevant
A graze is exactly the kind of shallow, stinging surface damage aloe has been used on traditionally — it cools, hydrates, and takes the edge off.
Aloe's water-rich gel keeps the raw surface from drying into a tight, painful crust, and its polysaccharides may ease local inflammation.
Dose or use After thorough cleaning and once oozing has stopped, apply a thin layer of pure aloe gel 2-3 times daily and cover with a non-stick dressing.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use across more than one tradition · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsSoothing within minutes; scrapes typically heal over in 5-10 days.Traditional useClassical use across multiple traditions
Caution: Stop if irritation or rash develops. Only for shallow scrapes — deeper wounds, bites, or scrapes you can't fully clean need professional care. Watch for spreading redness, warmth, pus, or fever.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use classical
Classic herbal salve for scrapes and cuts
Why it may be relevant
Calendula salve is the traditional go-to for exactly this — everyday scrapes and grazes that need gentle protection while they heal.
Its triterpenes and flavonoids show anti-inflammatory and mild antimicrobial activity in lab studies, and the ointment base shields the raw surface from friction and drying.
Dose or use Apply a thin layer of calendula ointment to the cleaned graze 2-3 times daily under a clean, non-stick dressing.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use across more than one tradition · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to results5-10 days for typical scrapes to close over.Traditional useClassical use across multiple traditions
Caution: Avoid with ragweed/daisy-family allergy; stop if a rash develops. Any graze that becomes more painful, red, warm, or weepy after the first couple of days should be seen by a clinician.
For a small clean cut, a dab of medical-grade honey under a bandage keeps the edges moist and discourages bacteria while the cut knits together.
Honey maintains a moist, antibacterial healing environment; cuts kept moist and covered generally heal faster and with less scabbing than those left to dry out.
Dose or use Clean the cut, press until bleeding stops, then apply a small amount of sterile medical-grade manuka honey and cover with an adhesive bandage; change daily.
Key study Systematic review (2015, PMID 25742878): Cochrane review of 26 trials found topical honey healed partial-thickness burns and infected post-operative wounds faster than some conventional dressings; evidence for other acute wounds was mixed.
EvidenceSupported by controlled trialsTime to resultsSmall cuts typically seal in 3-7 days.
Caution: A cut that gapes open, won't stop bleeding after 10-15 minutes of pressure, or is deep enough to see fat or muscle needs medical closure — ideally within hours. Use only sterile medical-grade honey; avoid with bee/honey allergy. Infection signs need prompt care.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use classical
Soothing herbal cream for tender new skin
Why it may be relevant
Once your small cut has sealed, calendula cream keeps the tender line of new skin supple and calm as it strengthens.
Calendula's anti-inflammatory triterpenes plus an emollient base reduce dryness and irritation at the healing edge, which helps you avoid re-cracking the cut.
Dose or use Apply a thin layer over the sealed cut and surrounding skin 2-3 times daily until fully healed.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use across more than one tradition · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsComfort within a day or two; full healing over 1-2 weeks.Traditional useClassical use across multiple traditions
Caution: Avoid with ragweed/daisy-family allergy. Don't apply cream into a cut that is still open and weeping. If the cut reopens repeatedly or shows spreading redness or pus, see a clinician.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use classical
Bee resin traditionally used on minor cuts
Why it may be relevant
Propolis has a long traditional history as a 'natural bandage' for small cuts like yours, valued for keeping the wound sealed and clean.
Propolis is rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity in laboratory studies, and its resinous texture forms a protective film over small wounds.
Dose or use Apply a propolis ointment or a few drops of tincture to the cleaned cut 2-3 times daily and cover with a bandage.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use across more than one tradition · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsSmall cuts typically seal in 3-7 days.Traditional useClassical use across multiple traditions
Caution: Allergic reactions to propolis are relatively common — avoid with bee, honey, or poplar allergy and stop if the area gets redder or itchier. Deep or gaping cuts need professional closure; watch for infection signs.
A dab of honey coats the cut inside your mouth, taking the sting out of eating and drinking while the tissue repairs.
Honey's viscosity forms a temporary protective film, and its acidity and sugar content discourage bacterial growth — properties shown to help skin wounds, extrapolated here to the mouth.
Dose or use Dab a small amount of honey directly on the sore spot 2-3 times daily after rinsing; let it sit rather than washing it away immediately.
Key study Systematic review (2015, PMID 25742878): Cochrane review found topical honey sped healing of some skin wounds and burns; applying it to cuts inside the mouth is an extrapolation from that skin-wound evidence.
EvidenceLimited human trials so far · Most of the research is laboratory or animal workTime to resultsSoothing within minutes; minor mouth cuts typically heal in 7-10 days.
Caution: Never give honey to children under 1 year (infant botulism risk). Avoid with bee/honey allergy; it is sugar, so rinse later if you're cavity-prone. A mouth sore lasting over 2 weeks needs a dental or medical exam.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use classical
Bee resin traditionally used on mouth sores
Why it may be relevant
Propolis has a long traditional record for sores and cuts in the mouth specifically, and comes in sprays and lozenges designed for oral use.
Its flavonoid-rich resin has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity in lab studies and adheres to moist tissue, forming a mild protective layer over the cut.
Dose or use Use an oral propolis spray, lozenge, or diluted tincture per product labeling, 2-3 times daily after rinsing your mouth.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use across more than one tradition · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsMost minor mouth cuts heal in 7-10 days.Traditional useClassical use across multiple traditions
Caution: Propolis allergy is relatively common — avoid with bee, honey, or poplar allergy and stop if burning or swelling increases. Persistent (over 2 weeks), recurrent, or painless non-healing mouth sores must be examined.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use classical
The standard home care for mouth wounds
Why it may be relevant
For a cut inside the mouth, a warm saltwater rinse is the classic first-line home measure — it keeps the area clean where a bandage can't go.
The mildly hypertonic solution draws fluid from swollen tissue, eases soreness, and helps keep bacteria levels down after eating, supporting the mouth's naturally fast healing.
Dose or use Dissolve 1/2 teaspoon of salt in 1 cup of warm water; swish gently for 15-30 seconds and spit, 2-4 times daily, especially after meals. Do not swallow.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use across more than one tradition · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsSoothing is immediate; most minor mouth cuts heal in 7-10 days.Traditional useClassical use across multiple traditions
Caution: A mouth wound from a deep bite, one that won't stop bleeding, or any sore that hasn't healed within 2 weeks should be examined by a dentist or clinician — persistent mouth sores always warrant a check.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use recognised
Skin-remodeling peptide used after closure
Why it may be relevant
With your wound closed, GHK-Cu copper peptides are a modern skincare option aimed at the remodeling phase you're now in.
GHK-Cu occurs naturally in the body and stimulates collagen and elastin production and antioxidant defenses in laboratory studies; it's used cosmetically to support skin repair and texture.
Dose or use Apply a GHK-Cu (copper peptide) serum or cream to the fully closed area once or twice daily; do not layer with strong acids or high-dose vitamin C at the same time of day.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceNot yet assessed · We have not reviewed the literature for this oneTime to results8-12 weeks of consistent use to judge any change in scar texture.Traditional useRecognised traditional use
Caution: Never apply to open or weeping skin. Patch-test first. Evidence for scar improvement is preliminary — if scarring is significant or over a joint or the face, ask a dermatologist about proven options early, when they work best.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use classical
Herb traditionally used to support skin repair
Why it may be relevant
Your wound has closed and your focus is the scar — Centella is one of the most established traditional herbs for skin repair and is a common ingredient in modern scar creams.
Centella's triterpenoids (asiaticoside, madecassoside) stimulate collagen synthesis and modulate scar formation in laboratory and animal studies, which is why it appears in many dermatology skincare products.
Dose or use Once the wound has fully closed, apply a Centella (cica) cream to the new scar 1-2 times daily for 6-8 weeks, massaging gently.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use across more than one tradition · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsScars remodel slowly — judge results over 8-12 weeks, and expect continued change for months.Traditional useClassical use across multiple traditions
Caution: Apply only to fully closed skin; patch-test first. If taking gotu kola by mouth instead, note rare reports of liver injury and avoid in pregnancy, breastfeeding, or liver disease. Raised, growing, or painful scars deserve a dermatology review.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Found in mainstream scar gels
Why it may be relevant
You want to influence how your closed wound scars, and onion extract is the active ingredient in several widely sold scar gels.
Onion extract contains flavonoids and sulfur compounds proposed to calm inflammation and moderate excess collagen in forming scars; results in studies have been modest and inconsistent, so keep expectations realistic.
Dose or use Once the skin has fully closed, massage an onion-extract scar gel into the area 2-3 times daily for at least 8 weeks, per product directions.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to results8-12 weeks minimum; scar appearance evolves over months.Traditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Apply only to closed skin and patch-test first — irritation and allergy are possible. Keloids and hypertrophic scars often need professional treatments (silicone, steroid injection); see a dermatologist if a scar is raised and growing.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Skin-conditioning oil for new scars
Why it may be relevant
For a freshly closed wound you'd like to fade well, rosehip oil is a gentle, traditional option for conditioning new scar tissue.
Rosehip seed oil is rich in essential fatty acids and natural retinoid-like compounds (trans-retinoic acid traces) thought to support skin regeneration; regular massage itself also helps scars soften.
Dose or use After the wound has fully closed, massage 2-3 drops of rosehip seed oil into the scar twice daily for at least 8 weeks.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to results8-12 weeks of consistent use; scars keep remodeling for up to a year.Traditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Only on fully closed skin — oils in an open wound can trap bacteria. Patch-test first; stop if breakouts or irritation occur. Thick, raised, or spreading scars should be assessed by a dermatologist.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use classical
Traditional soother for shallow skin damage
Why it may be relevant
Your wound is in the itchy, tight scabbing stage — aloe's cooling hydration is well suited to calming that without disturbing the scab.
Itch and tightness often come from the healing surface drying out; aloe's water-rich gel rehydrates the area and may ease local inflammation, making it easier to leave the scab alone.
Dose or use Apply a thin layer of pure aloe vera gel around and over the scabbed area 2-3 times daily; dab gently rather than rubbing.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use across more than one tradition · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsItch relief within minutes to hours; scabs typically resolve over 1-2 weeks.Traditional useClassical use across multiple traditions
Caution: Stop if irritation worsens (contact allergy is possible). Don't pick or soak off the scab. If the area becomes more red, warm, swollen, or painful instead of better, have it checked.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use classical
Soothing herbal cream for tender new skin
Why it may be relevant
As your wound scabs and new skin forms underneath, a calendula cream keeps the area supple and calm during this in-between stage.
Calendula's triterpenes have anti-inflammatory activity in lab studies, and the emollient base reduces the dryness that drives itching and cracking at the wound edge.
Dose or use Apply a thin layer of calendula cream to the healing area and its edges 2-3 times daily until the skin has fully closed and settled.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use across more than one tradition · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsComfort within a day or two; continue for the 1-2 weeks the area takes to fully close.Traditional useClassical use across multiple traditions
Caution: Avoid with ragweed/daisy-family allergy and stop if a rash appears. Signs of infection — spreading redness, warmth, pus, fever — need medical evaluation.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Calms the itch of healing skin
Why it may be relevant
You're mainly bothered by itch and tightness, and colloidal oatmeal is a well-known skin-soother for exactly that kind of irritation.
Oat avenanthramides have anti-itch and anti-inflammatory properties, and the cream base seals in moisture so the healing skin stays flexible instead of cracking and itching.
Dose or use Apply colloidal oatmeal cream to the itchy skin around the healing wound 2-3 times daily, especially after washing; avoid rubbing the scab itself.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsItch relief within minutes to hours; use through the 1-2 weeks of scab healing.Traditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Avoid with oat allergy. Apply to intact and healing skin, not into an open wound. Worsening redness, warmth, or discharge is a reason to see a clinician, not to add more cream.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Popular for healing skin — patch-test first
Why it may be relevant
Many people reach for vitamin E at the itchy healing stage; it can moisturize tight, healing skin, though its reputation outruns its evidence.
Vitamin E is an antioxidant and its oil base is emollient, which can relieve the dryness behind itch. Evidence that it improves the final result is weak, so treat it as a moisturizer, not a healer.
Dose or use Only on skin that has closed over: apply a small amount once daily. Patch-test on your inner forearm for 2-3 days first, because reactions are relatively common.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsMoisturizing effect is immediate; no proven effect on healing speed.Traditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Topical vitamin E is a well-known cause of contact dermatitis — stop at any sign of redness or itching that worsens. Do not apply into open wounds.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use classical
Traditional soother for shallow skin damage
Why it may be relevant
Cracks and splits happen when skin dries and loses flexibility — aloe rehydrates the area so the fissure can close instead of re-splitting.
Aloe's humectant polysaccharides pull water into the skin and calm the surrounding irritation, addressing the dryness that caused the split in the first place.
Dose or use Apply pure aloe gel to the crack and surrounding skin 2-3 times daily, then seal with a thicker balm or cream at night; keep the area protected from repeated wetting and detergents.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use across more than one tradition · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsShallow splits typically close within 3-7 days once kept moisturized and protected.Traditional useClassical use across multiple traditions
Caution: Deep, bleeding, or recurrent fissures — especially on the heels in someone with diabetes — need professional care. Stop if irritation worsens; watch for redness, warmth, or pus.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use classical
Herbal emollient for splits and fissures
Why it may be relevant
For cracked knuckles or heels, a rich calendula oil or cream both softens the hard, dry skin around the split and soothes the raw crack itself.
The oil base restores the skin's lipid barrier while calendula's triterpenes calm inflammation — together they let the fissure edges soften and knit closed.
Dose or use Massage calendula oil or cream into the cracked area 2-3 times daily and after every hand-wash; at night, apply generously and cover with cotton gloves or socks.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use across more than one tradition · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsMost shallow cracks improve within 3-7 days; heel fissures can take 2-3 weeks.Traditional useClassical use across multiple traditions
Caution: Avoid with ragweed/daisy-family allergy. Cracks that keep reopening, bleed deeply, or occur with numbness or diabetes should be assessed professionally.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Barrier repair for dry, splitting skin
Why it may be relevant
Your skin is splitting because its barrier has failed — colloidal oatmeal cream is designed to rebuild exactly that barrier and stop the cycle of cracking.
Oat beta-glucans and lipids reinforce the skin barrier and hold moisture, while avenanthramides calm the itch and irritation around the cracks.
Dose or use Apply oatmeal cream liberally to the affected hands or feet 2-3 times daily and after washing; a thick layer under cotton gloves or socks overnight speeds things up.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsSkin comfort within days; cracks typically close over 1-2 weeks with consistent use.Traditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Avoid with oat allergy. If cracks are deep, infected-looking, or you have diabetes or poor circulation (especially heel fissures), see a clinician rather than self-treating.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Emollient option for rough, cracked skin
Why it may be relevant
For rough, cracked patches that have mostly closed, vitamin E oil is a heavy emollient that can keep the skin flexible enough not to re-split.
The oil base occludes and softens hardened skin; vitamin E itself adds antioxidant activity, though evidence it speeds healing is weak — treat it as a rich moisturizer.
Dose or use Apply a small amount to closed, rough, or cracked areas once daily, ideally at night; patch-test on the inner forearm for 2-3 days first.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsSoftening within days; no proven effect on healing speed.Traditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Contact dermatitis from topical vitamin E is well documented — stop if redness or itching develops. Do not apply into open, weeping cracks.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use recognised
Required cofactor for collagen
Why it may be relevant
If produce rarely makes it onto your plate, a modest vitamin C supplement is a simple bridge while your wound is healing.
The body cannot make or store much vitamin C, and collagen synthesis stalls without it; topping up a genuinely low intake supports normal repair (mega-doses add no proven extra benefit).
Dose or use Follow product labeling; consult a healthcare practitioner. A common short-term supportive range is 100-500 mg/day with food.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceNot yet assessed · We have not reviewed the literature for this oneTime to resultsTypically 2-4 weeks if intake was low.Traditional useRecognised traditional use
Caution: High doses can cause GI upset and may raise kidney stone risk in prone individuals; check with your clinician if you have kidney disease or take chemotherapy or certain other treatments.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use recognised
Collagen repair depends on vitamin C
Why it may be relevant
Eating few fruits and vegetables is the most common route to low vitamin C — and without it, the collagen cross-linking your wound needs simply can't happen properly.
Vitamin C is an obligatory cofactor for collagen-building enzymes; marginal deficiency shows up as slow healing, easy bruising, and bleeding gums, and it corrects quickly once intake is restored.
Dose or use Ask your clinician about assessing your intake. Add a vitamin C source daily — citrus, kiwi, berries, peppers, broccoli — and supplement only as advised.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceNot yet assessed · We have not reviewed the literature for this oneTime to resultsTissue levels rebound within days; healing capacity typically improves over 2-4 weeks.Traditional useRecognised traditional use
Caution: Smokers and people with very restricted diets are at higher risk and may need more. Bleeding gums or widespread bruising with a poor diet deserves a medical review, not just self-supplementation.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use recognised
Key mineral for tissue repair
Why it may be relevant
A diet light on whole foods is often light on zinc too, and zinc works alongside vitamin C in nearly every step of wound repair.
Zinc-dependent enzymes drive cell division and new tissue formation; a shortfall slows healing, and correcting it restores normal capacity.
Dose or use Follow product labeling; consult a healthcare practitioner. Typical short-term support is 15-30 mg/day with food; avoid exceeding 40 mg/day long term.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceNot yet assessed · We have not reviewed the literature for this oneTime to resultsTypically 2-6 weeks if intake was low.Traditional useRecognised traditional use
Caution: Long-term high-dose zinc causes copper deficiency, and zinc interferes with some antibiotics — separate doses by several hours. Take with food to avoid nausea.
How well is your diet currently set up to fuel repair?
Mostly plant-based or otherwise restricted diet
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Nutrient gap worth checking
Protein Deficiency
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use recognised
Wounds can't rebuild without protein
Why it may be relevant
Restricted diets can quietly run low on total protein — and healing tissue is one of the first places a shortfall shows up.
Amino acids are the raw material for collagen, new skin cells, and immune defense at the wound; on a plant-based diet, deliberately combining legumes, soy, grains, nuts, and seeds keeps supply adequate.
Dose or use Review intake with a clinician or dietitian; aim for a substantial protein source (tofu, tempeh, legumes, seitan, dairy or eggs if included) at each meal while healing.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceNot yet assessed · We have not reviewed the literature for this oneTime to resultsHealing capacity typically improves over 2-6 weeks of restored intake.Traditional useRecognised traditional use
Caution: Fatigue, hair shedding, brittle nails, or leg swelling alongside slow healing warrants medical assessment. Kidney disease requires individualized protein guidance.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use recognised
Key mineral for tissue repair
Why it may be relevant
Given your diet's lower zinc availability, a modest supplement while your wound heals is a reasonable, targeted bridge.
Zinc acts as a cofactor for the enzymes rebuilding skin; restoring a low level supports normal healing speed, though extra zinc beyond adequacy doesn't accelerate it further.
Dose or use Follow product labeling; consult a healthcare practitioner. Typical short-term support is 15-30 mg/day with food; avoid exceeding 40 mg/day long term.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceNot yet assessed · We have not reviewed the literature for this oneTime to resultsTypically 2-6 weeks if intake was low.Traditional useRecognised traditional use
Caution: Long-term high-dose zinc causes copper deficiency; zinc reduces absorption of tetracycline and quinolone antibiotics — separate doses by several hours.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use recognised
Plant-based diets absorb less zinc
Why it may be relevant
On a plant-based or restricted diet, phytates in grains and legumes reduce zinc absorption — so even a decent intake can leave you short of the mineral wound repair leans on hardest.
Zinc is required for the cell division and immune activity at the wound site; plant-forward eaters may need roughly 50% more zinc to compensate for lower absorption.
Dose or use Ask your clinician about assessing zinc status. Emphasize higher-zinc plant foods (pumpkin seeds, legumes, tofu, fortified foods), use soaking/sprouting to lower phytates, and supplement only as advised.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceNot yet assessed · We have not reviewed the literature for this oneTime to resultsIf a shortfall is corrected, healing capacity typically improves over 2-6 weeks.Traditional useRecognised traditional use
Caution: Confirm rather than assume deficiency. Long-term zinc above 40 mg/day can cause copper deficiency. A wound that won't progress despite good care needs medical evaluation.
How well is your diet currently set up to fuel repair?
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use recognised
Amino acid building blocks for repair
Why it may be relevant
As an optional add-on to a good diet, collagen peptides top up the specific amino acids skin repair uses most.
Hydrolyzed collagen supplies glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline in an absorbable form; evidence is strongest for general skin health, and its role in speeding minor wound healing is unproven.
Dose or use Follow product labeling; consult a healthcare practitioner. Typical use is 5-15 g daily mixed into a drink.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceNot yet assessed · We have not reviewed the literature for this oneTime to resultsTypically 4-8 weeks for any skin-level effect.Traditional useRecognised traditional use
Caution: Sourced from bovine, fish, or chicken — avoid your allergens. Treat it as a supplement to, not a replacement for, whole-food protein.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use classical
Herb traditionally used to support skin repair
Why it may be relevant
If your basics are covered and you want a traditional herbal option, Centella is the classic wound-and-skin herb in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine.
Its triterpenoids stimulate collagen synthesis in laboratory studies, which is the mechanistic basis for its long traditional use in skin repair — clinical proof for minor wounds is still lacking.
Dose or use Follow product labeling; consult a healthcare practitioner. Standardized extracts are typically taken short term, not continuously.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use across more than one tradition · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsTypically assessed over 4-8 weeks.Traditional useClassical use across multiple traditions
Caution: Rare reports of liver injury with oral gotu kola — avoid in liver disease, pregnancy, and breastfeeding, and don't combine with other hepatotoxic supplements. May cause drowsiness with sedatives.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use recognised
Required cofactor for collagen
Why it may be relevant
You're eating well and just want insurance — making sure vitamin C intake is consistently solid is the most defensible 'extra' for a healing wound.
Collagen synthesis is strictly vitamin C-dependent. If your diet already covers it, more won't speed healing — so food-first is honest advice here, with a modest supplement as optional insurance.
Dose or use Prioritize daily produce (citrus, berries, peppers, greens). If supplementing, follow product labeling; 100-250 mg/day is ample. Consult a healthcare practitioner.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceNot yet assessed · We have not reviewed the literature for this oneTime to resultsIf intake is already adequate, expect maintenance rather than visible acceleration; wounds close on their normal 1-2 week timeline.Traditional useRecognised traditional use
Caution: High doses can cause GI upset and may raise kidney stone risk in prone individuals. Supplements don't compensate for smoking, poor sleep, or an untreated wound problem.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use recognised
Key mineral for tissue repair
Why it may be relevant
For a balanced diet, the honest zinc story is a short, modest course during healing — not high doses, which help only when levels are genuinely low.
Zinc powers the enzymes of cell division and tissue repair; if your intake is already good, keeping it steady matters more than adding more.
Dose or use Food-first (meat, seafood, legumes, seeds). If supplementing, follow product labeling; 10-15 mg/day short term is plenty. Consult a healthcare practitioner.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceNot yet assessed · We have not reviewed the literature for this oneTime to resultsMaintenance effect; minor wounds close on their normal 1-2 week timeline.Traditional useRecognised traditional use
Caution: Avoid exceeding 40 mg/day — chronic high zinc causes copper deficiency. Separate from tetracycline/quinolone antibiotics by several hours.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use recognised
Amino acid building blocks for repair
Why it may be relevant
With appetite low, a scoop of collagen peptides is an easy way to add the glycine- and proline-rich protein that skin repair draws on heavily.
Collagen peptides supply the specific amino acids (glycine, proline, hydroxyproline) that make up the collagen scaffold of a healing wound, in a form that mixes into any drink when eating is hard.
Dose or use Follow product labeling; consult a healthcare practitioner. Typical use is 5-15 g of powder daily stirred into a hot or cold drink.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceNot yet assessed · We have not reviewed the literature for this oneTime to resultsTypically 4-8 weeks; think of it as filling a protein gap, not a fast-acting remedy.Traditional useRecognised traditional use
Caution: Sourced from bovine, fish, or chicken — avoid your allergens. It's an incomplete protein, so it supplements rather than replaces whole-food protein.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use recognised
Wounds can't rebuild without protein
Why it may be relevant
You've flagged low appetite and low protein — and protein is the single biggest dietary lever for wound repair, since every new cell and collagen fiber is built from amino acids.
During healing the body's protein needs rise; if intake is low, repair slows and immunity at the wound site weakens. Restoring intake is a fixable bottleneck.
Dose or use Aim for a protein source at every meal (eggs, dairy, fish, meat, legumes, tofu); if appetite is poor, smaller frequent protein-rich snacks or a protein shake can bridge the gap. Discuss targets with a clinician or dietitian.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceNot yet assessed · We have not reviewed the literature for this oneTime to resultsHealing capacity typically improves over 2-6 weeks of restored intake.Traditional useRecognised traditional use
Caution: Unintended weight loss or swelling in the legs alongside poor healing warrants a medical workup. People with kidney disease need individualized protein guidance.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use recognised
Key mineral for tissue repair
Why it may be relevant
When overall intake is down, zinc usually drops with it — and zinc-dependent enzymes drive the cell division your wound relies on.
Zinc is a cofactor for DNA synthesis, protein building, and immune defense at the wound site; correcting a shortfall restores normal repair, though extra zinc beyond adequacy adds nothing.
Dose or use Follow product labeling; consult a healthcare practitioner. Typical short-term support is 15-30 mg/day with food; avoid exceeding 40 mg/day long term.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceNot yet assessed · We have not reviewed the literature for this oneTime to resultsTypically 2-6 weeks if intake was low.Traditional useRecognised traditional use
Caution: Long-term high-dose zinc causes copper deficiency. Zinc reduces absorption of some antibiotics (tetracyclines, quinolones) — separate doses by several hours. Take with food to avoid nausea.
Evidence grades describe the strength of published research for Scrapes, Cuts, and Wounds, not a promise of results. A higher grade is not a personal recommendation. Nothing here is medical advice — talk to your clinician before starting anything, especially alongside prescription medication.
The evidence behind Scrapes, Cuts, and Wounds, in one page
We track 17 natural options for Scrapes, Cuts, and Wounds — what each is typically used for, usual dose, cautions, and the study behind the ones with real trial data.
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