Black walnut or Juglans nigra is also known as schwarze walnuss and Nogal Americano. Black walnuts are another species of regular walnuts. Though the hull is most commonly used as an herbal remedy, the bark and leaf of the tree are used for certain health conditions such as parasitic infections, acne and ringworm. It is the green hulls of the unripe fruits that are used in a number of herbal preparations.
Medicinal Properties
Black walnut hulls have been used for centuries for the cure of athlete's foot and numerous fungal diseases. Black walnut herbal preparations come in various forms such as liniments, foot powders and washes prepared especially for infectious skin disorders and athlete's foot. When applied to the skin they tend to leave a color that can last for a number of days.
When used internally black walnut cleanses the intestines and blood. For internal use it comes as a tincture and is very effective for a number of gastrointestinal disorders that are the result of intestinal parasites. These include diarrhea, constipation, candida and giardia. Black walnut is also effective for curing warts, herpes and eczema. It helps to balance blood-sugar levels and burns fats and toxins. Due to the high levels of alkaloids and acids in black walnut hulls, they exhibit certain anticancer properties as well.
Black Walnut Bark and Leaves
Black walnut bark helps to relieve constipation and is an effective cure for parasitic and fungal infections. The leaves of black walnut are high in astringent tannins which cross-link skin cells. This increases the resistance of cells to infectious microorganisms and allergens. The tannins in washes made with walnut leaves help to shrink sweat glands and hence reduce perspiration. The leaves not only contain juglone but are also a rich source of walnut essential oil which affects infectious microorganisms directly. There is also a very high level of vitamin C in the leaves, which helps to fight infections. Black walnut herbal products are easily available from herb suppliers and herbal shops.
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