Black walnut -- scientific name, Juglans nigra -- is a forest tree that typically grows in small groves in the eastern parts of North America. It is also known as black walnut hulls and the American walnut. The black walnut tree produces an edible nut that is high in omega-3 fatty acids. However, the inner bark, nut hulls, leaves and roots are harvested for use in herbal remedies. You should only take black walnut under supervision from your physician, as it contains the compound juglone, which may be toxic in high doses.
About Black Walnut
The black walnut has been used as food source dating back to pre-historic times. Historically, it has also been used in charms to ward off the evil eye and on the skin to treat eczema, warts and psoriasis. The Romans and Greeks referred to black walnut as the "Imperial nut" and used it to treat intestinal disease, according to the American Cancer Society. The tree is a native hardwood that grows to a height up to 100 feet. Black walnut wood is used in making furniture, gun stocks and veneer, and its extract is used as a dye for hair and clothing.
Medicinal Uses
Black walnut contains several different active compounds, including juglone and tannins, along with B vitamins, vitamin C and beta-carotene. It does exhibit some antioxidant properties. Black walnut is still used externally for skin problems such as ringworm, athlete's foot, blisters and varicose ulcers. It is also used to treat some conditions of the eye and eyelid, including infections. Taken internally, the extract is used for gout, rheumatoid arthritis and to eliminate parasites. In other countries, the hulls are used as a laxative and toothpaste. It is also used for treating for bronchitis, asthma and kidney stones. More studies are needed, but it appears that the compound juglone may possess some anti-cancer activity.
Side Effects
Because it has not been well-studied, there is no real scientific data to back up the purported benefits of black walnut. It is classified as a dietary supplement by the FDA and therefore has not been tested for safety and efficacy. Due to lack of study, not all side effects are known, but it's possible to develop an allergic reaction to black walnut. You may not be able to take black walnut if you are also allergic to pecans. Allergy symptoms include skin rash, itching, wheezing and swelling of the face and mouth. When used externally, it may stain your skin yellow or dark brown.
Warnings
The roots of the black walnut contain the compound juglone, which seeps out into the surrounding soil and prevents other foliage from growing too near. Smaller amounts are found in the leaves and bark. AltMD states there is some concern that taking high doses of black walnut may cause kidney and liver damage. Do not take black walnut if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. You should consult your healthcare provider for the correct dosage for your condition.
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