Skin Ulcers
- Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
- Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
- For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.
Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.
For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.
| Supplement | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Aloe | Apply gel on gauze or dressings daily |  [2 stars] Aloe has been used historically to improve wound healing and studies have shown it to be effective in healing skin ulcers. |
Diosmin and Hesperidin | 900 mg per day of diosmin and 100 mg per day of hesperidin | [2 stars] One trial found that a combination of the flavonoids diosmin and hesperidin promoted healing of venous leg ulcers. Hydroxyethylrutosides (related flavonoids) may also help. |
Essential Fatty Acids Topical | Refer to label instructions | [2 stars] In one study, topically applied essential fatty acids significantly lessened pressure ulcers and improved skin hydration and elasticity in malnourished people, who frequently develop ulcers. |
Evening Primrose Oil | 1,500 mg with each meal | [2 stars] A preliminary report suggested that evening primrose oil improves blood flow to the legs and heals or reduces the size of venous leg ulcers. |
Folic Acid | Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner | [2 stars] Large amounts of folic acid given both orally and by injection could promote healing of chronic skin ulcers due to poor circulation. |
Gotu Kola | Apply an ointment or powder containing 1 to 2% herbal extract daily | [2 stars] Gotu kola extracts may be used topically to help speed wound healing. |
Hyaluronic Acid | Apply a gel containing a partial benzyl ester derivative of hyaluronan under compression bandaging daily | [2 stars] A trial found that topical application of a hyaluronic acid compound with compression bandaging was significantly better than bandaging alone for healing chronic venous skin ulcers. |
Pycnogenol | 150 mg per day orally, along with topical application of 100 mg daily | [2 stars] In a controlled study, symptoms of diabetic skin ulcers improved in those treated with standard medications plus oral and topical Pycnogenol.
|
Vitamin C | 1,000 mg daily | [2 stars] Supplementing with vitamin C may help prevent skin ulcers and speed healing. |
Vitamin E Oral | 400 IU daily | [2 stars] Antioxidants, such as vitamin E, are depleted in healing skin tissue. Studies have shown that vitamin E taken orally to be effective at preventing skin ulcers and promoting healing. |
Zinc | Take under medical supervision: 50 mg of zinc (plus 1 to 3 mg of copper daily, to prevent depletion) and apply zinc-containing bandages or tape to the area | [2 stars] Supplementing with zinc may help some types of skin ulcer by facilitating tissue growth. |
Vitamin E Topical | Refer to label instructions |  [1 star] Antioxidants such as vitamin E, are depleted in healing skin tissue. One study found that topically applied vitamin E shortened the healing time of skin ulcers. |
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The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires June 2013.