Black Walnut Leaf Profile
Also known as
Juglans nigra, Akschota, ructus Cortex, Juglans, Juglandis, Juglandis Folium, Juglans regia, Nogal, Walnut, Walnut Fruit, Walnut Hull, Walnut Leaf.
Introduction
The black walnut is native tree of North America, but their history goes back quite a ways in antiquity. The genus name, juglans, is derived from two Latin words; lupiter, meaning Jupiter, and glans, meaning acorn. The literal translation is therefore "Jupiter's nuts". According to a Chaldean clay tablet, walnut groves were known to be in the hanging gardens of Babylon. Pliny the Elder (ca.23-79 C.E.) reported cultivation in Italy from trees that had been transported from countries farther east. In ancient Persia, only royalty were supposed to eat them, and they were even referred to as the "royal walnut". English herbalist Nicholas Culpepper reported in the 17th century that walnut leaf, in combination with onion, salt, and honey could help to draw the venom from snake and spider bites. In America, there is archeological evidence that they were consumed and used by the Native Americans as far back as 2000 B.C.E. Black walnuts are smaller, harder, and more pungent than the English walnuts sold in grocery stores. The hulls without the meaty kernels inside are used in herbal medicine. Black walnut trees exude a sap that discourages growth of competing plants over their roots.
Constituents
Tannins.
Parts Used
Dried leaf.
Typical Preparations
Washes, compresses, and baths.
Summary
Black walnut leaf contains tannins that cross-link proteins in mucous membranes and the skin. The tannins make the herb useful treating conditions in which the skin "leaks," such as excessive perspiration, eczema, and allergic rashes. There are many regional formulas for topical remedies that use walnut leaf as an ingredient. In France, walnut leaf is used to treat scalp itching, peeling and dandruff; as well as sunburns and superficial burns. In India, a walnut leaf decoction is used as a wash for malignant sores and pustules. The German Commission E notes their benefit for mild, superficial inflammations of the skin, and excessive perspiration of the hands and feet.
Precautions
None known, however its long term use is not recommended.
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
