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Common Name
Oak Bark
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Botanical Name
Quercus robur
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Part Used
Bark
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Clinical Summary
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Monograph
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Alcohol
30%
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Dose
20 to 40mL weekly
The astringent agents found in oak have been employed for many complaints including diarrhoea and haemorrhoids. It can be used as a mouthwash and gargle for discharging, bleeding or infected surfaces of the mouth and throat including sore throats and mouth ulcers. It can be applied locally for minor wounds, cuts, scrapes, vaginal discharge and herpes.
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Traditional Use
The European oak tree has been used in both industry and medicine for thousands of years. The astringent agents found in oak have been employed for many complaints including diarrhoea, vomiting, mouth ulcers, sore throats and leucorrhoea. The tree was sacred to the Druids and much folklore exists about its magical uses, including the acorns being used for fertility.
• Digestive system: diarrhoea, dysentery, vomiting, haemorrhoids.
• ENT: colds, catarrh, sinus infection, throat infection, tonsillitis, bleeding gums.
• Skin: topical for bleeding, infections, mouth ulcers, inflammation, herpes, eczema, varicose veins.
• Genitourinary: kidney tonic, leucorrhoea, excessive menstrual bleeding. -
Actions
Astringent, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, styptic, diuretic
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Indications
• Diarrhoea, dysentery
• Sore throat, tonsillitis (gargle), bleeding gums
• Haemorrhage
• Leucorrhoea
• Possible use in oxidative stress and cancer support
• Skin infections (topical) -
Energetics
Bitter, cooling, drying
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Use in Pregnancy
Not generally used or recommended during pregnancy.
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Contraindications & Cautions
Topical application of oak should be avoided in cases of significant damage to skin surface.
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Drug Interactions
Due to the tannin content, absorption of alkaloid and alkaline drugs may be inhibited or reduced and caution is warranted.
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Dietary Information
Vegan friendly. Gluten and dairy free
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Substitutes
Agrimony, Witch Hazel, Lady’s Mantle, Raspberry, Shepherd’s Purse, Stone Root, Yarrow