David L. Hoffmann BSc Hons MNIMHQuercus robur
Part Used: Bark.
Constituents: The whole complex of primary plant constituents and acharacteristic array of secondary plant constituents are present. The 15-20%tannins produce the dominant pharmacological effects.
Actions: Astringent, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic.
Indications: Oak Bark may be used wherever a strong astringent isindicated, for example in unresponsive diarrhoea or dysentery.However, with its high tannin content it might be too strong in somesituations, causing constipation. As a gargle it can be used intonsillitis, pharyngitis and laryngitis. As an enema it isused for the treatment of haemorrhoids and as a douche forleucorrhoea. It is primary indication is acute diarrhoea, taken infrequent small doses.
Preparations & Dosage: Decoction: put l teaspoonful of the bark ina cup of water, bring to the boil and simmer gently for l0-l5 minutes. This canbe drunk three times a day. Tincture: take l-2ml of the tincture three times aday.
Hyla Cass MD
Tom Ferguson MD