Black Walnut Tree

( Western Herb )

LATIN NAME:

Juglans nigra

GENERAL DESCRIPTION AND INFORMATION:

The Black Walnut tree is a large forest tree that grows to 120 feet. It grows in the eastern United States from Western Massachusetts to Florida, Minnesota to Texas, and Canada.

The Native Indians used the bark to treat skin problems such as ringworm. They drank a tea made from the bark as a laxative and they also chewed on the bark to relieve headache pain.

TARGET AILMENTS:

Take internally for:

* constipation

* intestinal worms and parasites infections

* toothache

* mouth sores

* inflamed tonsils

* emetic

* colic

Apply externally for:

* ringworm and skin parasites

* scabies, eczema, herpes, psoriasis

* cold sores and pimples

* athlete’s foot , jock itch

* inflammation

PREPARATIONS AND DOSAGE:

Over the counter:

Black Walnut is available as a tincture, extract, dried bark, leaves, and the fruit rind.

At Home:

Decoction: Simmer the green husk in boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes. Take 1 tablespoon of this decoction three to four times a day.

Gargle: Use the decoction as a mouthwash or gargle to treat mouth sores.

Extract: Mix 10 to 20 drops in water or juice and drink daily. Rub on the affected area twice a day.

Poultice: Rub extract on the affected area twice a day. Make a poultice from the green rind of the black walnut tree and apply to the site of ringworms.

Parts used: Bark, leaves, rind of the fruit

Constituents: Tannins, iodine

Actions: Astringent, laxative, alterative, antiseptic

SIDE EFFECTS: None expected.

SPECIAL INFORMATION:

* Do not use preparations from Black Walnut if you are pregnant.

* Fresh green husks may irritate the skin and stain anything it touches.