Black Walnut Herb Uses

Black walnut, medicinally known as juglans nigra, is said to have antiseptic, parasitic, anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal and laxative properties. This herb may have the ability to treat certain health conditions including skin disorders such as eczema or acne, intestinal parasites, constipation, gout, rheumatism and other fungal infections. However, according to the American Cancer Society, there is little scientific evidence to back these claims, and more human studies are needed.

Description

The black walnut comes from the black walnut tree, a hardwood that grows across the United States, Canada and parts of Europe. This nut is high in fiber, protein and essential fatty acids, including alpha linolenic acid. It also is abundant in vitamin C, beta-carotene, vitamins B-1, B-2 and B-6, iron, zinc, sodium, phosphorus and magnesium. According to the website DrugsDigest.org, it contains two main active compounds: juglones, which may have antibiotic, anti-tumor and anti-fungal properties, and tannins, known for antibacterial, anti-hepatotoxic and anti-diarrheic properties. With its wide range of nutrients, alternative medical practitioners often choose it as an herbal remedy.

Possible Medicinal Uses

Black walnut has been used both as a topical solution and as an indigestible supplement. It may be an effective remedy for various skin conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, cuts, scrapes, wounds and rashes. In addition, it sometimes is used for canker sores, ringworm, blisters, athlete's foot, syphilis sores, warts and possibly toothaches, state Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. Black walnut has been used to treat colitis, sore throats, tonsillitis, constipation, gout, rheumatism, thyroid disease and cancer. More studies need to be completed to prove any of these claims. Research so far has been with animals, with no trials established for humans. Before using black walnut as an herbal remedy in any form, talk to your doctor.

Scientific Evidence

All of the studies performed on black walnut involve laboratory animals and most of the evidence has been inconclusive, states the American Cancer Society. However, a few studies show promise using black walnut. In a study published in the May 1998 issue of "Cancer Letters," researchers found that juglone, the compound primarily found in black walnut, has chemo-preventative agents. When the compound was used on laboratory animals that had tumors on their small intestines, the multiplicity of the tumors significantly decreased after treatment. In a study published in 2000 in the June issue of "Planta Medica," scientists confirmed that juglone derived from black walnut can protect animals against tumor growth. During this study, rats showed juglone significantly affected enzyme activities involved in the kidney, forestomach, colon and small intestine. These results imply that black walnut may be successful in inhibiting tumor growth in the intestines and colon, reducing the risk of colon and intestinal cancer. In another study, published in the December 2004 issue of "Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications," clinicians found that black walnut has compounds that are cytotoxic, acting similarly to chemotherapy and radiation; therefore, it may be an effective addition to help treat cancer.

Side Effects

Black walnuts are a tree nut; therefore, if you have allergies to nuts, you should avoid using this herb. Side effects may include skin rash and redness if you use this herb topically. If you use it orally, you may experience nausea, gastrointestinal discomfort, diarrhea, and in more serious cases, anaphylactic shock and other cytotoxic effects. Avoid using black walnut supplements if you are pregnant, breast-feeding or have any gastrointestinal disorders. Talk to your doctor before using any herbal remedy.