White Oak Bark has been used throughout history for its amazing health benefits. Oak trees have been worshiped for their association with ancient gods and have played an important role in the traditional medicine of several different societies. The majestic, deciduous White Oak tree can be identified by its distinctive rounded-lobed leaves, red or pale green clusters of flowers (catkins), and small brown acorns. The bark of the White Oak tree is light gray with a shallow wrinkled texture rather than white.
White Oaks (Scientific name Quercus alba) comes from the Fagaceae tree family. White Oak Trees are a hardy hardwood species that are native to Eastern and Central North America and can live up to 600 years due to their resistance to rot and decay. As the White Oak matures, the bark can start to peel.
The bark of the White Oak tree has a number of medicinal properties, including being an astringent, diuretic, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic. It is used to treat various conditions including arthritis, diarrhea, coughs, colds and bronchitis and to boost digestive health and stimulate appetite.
What is White Oak Bark?
White Oak Bark is derived from the inner bark and round growths known as galls that form on the tree. Oak bark can be dried and ground into a powder for topical and oral use. It has been used for medicinal purposes throughout history
White Oak bark is on the GRAS list which means that it is generally recognized as safe, and the FDA has deemed it safe for both topical and oral uses. The German Commission E has approved it for use as a treatment for diarrhea and it was listed in the US Pharmacopoeia beginning in 1916 because of its antiseptic and astringent qualities.
Tannins found in White Oak Bark are naturally occurring polyphenols that provide significant health benefits. Cocoa, tea & wine also contain these tannins. Interestingly, the high tannin content of certain wines is typically a result of aging wine in oak barrels. White Oak Bark can contain between 10-20 percent tannin content, which is higher than many other substances. There are various other nutrients in White Oak bark including potassium, iron and vitamin B12.
The bark of white oaks was often dried, ground into a powder, and then applied topically or consumed in a tea. In fact, native North Americans used White Oak bark, mainly because of its astringent, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory activity.
When applied topically to external wounds, the tannins in the bark bind with proteins in the body and form a protective barrier by constricting body tissues, tightening pores and drying out irritated areas which helps with the healing process. This, coupled with the fact that it has excellent antiseptic and antibacterial qualities, makes it a highly effective treatment, and may speed up the healing process, for cuts, bites, sores, scrapes, burns and minor wounds.
What Conditions has White Oak Bark been Used to Treat?
- Arthritis
- Fever
- Cough
- Bronchitis
- Nosebleeds
- Menstrual flow issues
- Hemorrhoids
- Varicose Veins
- Diarrhea
- Wounds
- Various Infections (Bladder, Urinary, Vaginal)
- Parasites
- Improve Kidney and Lung function
- Oral Hygiene/Bleeding Gums
- Treat colds and flu
- Soothe bee stings and bug bites
- Soothe skin irritations like poison ivy
- Clear Lungs and Respiratory system
Its saponin content in White Oak bark means that it might have expectorant properties suitable for getting rid of mucus and phlegm from the respiratory system.
White Oak Bark has Properties that are:
- Antiseptic
- Astringent
- Diuretic
- Antiparasitic
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antimicrobial
- Digestion Stimulant
In the days before dentistry, the Native Americans used White Oak bark to help treat oral infections and other dental issues like gingivitis and toothache. The bark contains antibacterial and antiseptic properties which can help prevent and treat oral infections, sore or bleeding gums and toothaches as well as being an astringent that can help oral sores (ulcers) to heal.
How is White Oak Bark Consumed?
Oak bark is sold as a powder, tea, pill, and liquid extract. It’s available over the counter in the United States and may be labeled as white oak or different varieties of its genus Quercus, including cortex sessilifora, robur, and pedunculata.
White Oak Bark can be drunk in the form of a tea to treat various conditions including arthritis, coughs and colds, bronchitis and diarrhea. It is also used to boost digestive health and to stimulate appetite.
White oak bark can also be used externally to protect against skin infections and to help treat a number of skin issues. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties can help to stop bleeding.
White Oak Bark is a Powerhouse Medicinal ingredient from Mother Nature that has been used for centuries to support, and help heal, a wide array of conditions.