White oak

Quercus alba

Traditionally attributed effects: strongly astringent; strengthens lax tissue (diarrhoea, inflamed gums, chronic nasal congestion, weak bladder), stops bleeding (nosebleeds, internal bleeding).

Safety notes

Not externally on large open wounds. Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.

Cautions by tradition (2)

Western herbalism: Not externally on large open wounds.
Cherokee (Tsalagi) medicine: Do not take it for long.

Preparation

Decoction of the bark: 1–2 tsp per cup, 10–12 min, 1–3 cups a day; tincture 12–60 drops 1–3 times a day; bath (5 tbsp per litre, 1 hour); compress; gargle/mouthwash (1–2 tbsp per cup, 1 hour).

Use in traditions

Indigenous peoples used the tannin-rich bark for diarrhoea, mouth ulcers and as a wash on wounds, and ate the sweet acorns after leaching out the tannin. The bark was also used to tan leather. In Western herbalism it is a classic astringent.

Applications

Use by tradition

How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.

Western herbalism

Attributed effects

Strongly astringent; strengthens lax tissue (diarrhoea, inflamed gums, chronic nasal congestion, weak bladder), stops bleeding (nosebleeds, internal bleeding).

Preparation and amount

Caution: Not externally on large open wounds.

Ways to prepare herbs: Decoction Tincture Compress, poultice and paste Steam and bath

Sources

All herbs from North America →

Use by tradition

Western herbalism

Attributed effects

Preparation and amount

Cherokee (Tsalagi) medicine

Attributed effects

Preparation and amount

Tags

Sources