White Oak
(Quercus alba)
Botanical Information
A large deciduous tree to 90 feet with white bark and often, dark spots of the hardwood forests of the eastern U.S.
Working with White Oak
Part(s) Used
Bark
Herb Forms
Tincture, bulk herb, powder.
Affects
White oak bark is quite astringent due to its high tannin content, and it is often recommended for diarrhea, for which it is combined with a little ginger or fennel. It is beneficial both internally and externally for varicose veins and hemorrhoids. It is used as a wash for mouth sores and as a gargle for sore throat. White oak can be used as a douche for leukorrea.
White Oak has a taste of ASTRINGENT, BITTER and a temperature of COOL.
Cautions
Avoid use of this herb externally if you have extensive skin surface damage or weeping eczema.
