The black walnut tree, or Juglans nigra, is native to North America, where it grows predominantly in the eastern and central regions of the United States. The tree produces aromatic nuts in very hard shells, encased within thick green hulls that turn brown and papery as the nut matures. Commercial growers harvest black walnuts just as the green hulls begin to split, removing the hulls and drying them for use in herbal products. The Food and Drug Administration does not regulate herbal remedies, so consult a doctor before using products containing black walnut hulls or extract.
Black Walnut Hull Constituents
Black walnut hulls contain compounds that can play a part in healing. The most important chemical constituents, according to the "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine," are juglones and tannins, although the hulls also contain vitamin C, B vitamins and beta-carotene.
Internal Health Benefits
According to "Prescription for Natural Cures," black walnut hulls are antiparasitic, making them beneficial for ridding the body of intestinal worms and parasites. Extracts prepared from the hulls may also be useful in the treatment of gout, glandular conditions and rheumatism. The hulls also possess laxative properties. These benefits are anecdotal and not backed by scientific studies on humans.
Additional uses include a prevalent rumored treatment for cancer, citing the idea that cancer is a result of the presence of parasites in the body. The American Cancer Society denounces the rumor. No evidence exists that supports either the idea that parasites cause cancer nor that black walnut hulls are an effective treatment for cancer.
External Health Benefits
A poultice, made by combining powdered black walnut hulls with water, may ease skin conditions caused by fungus. Ringworm, athlete's foot and jock itch may benefit from a poultice or from topical creams and ointments that contain black walnut hull extract.
Considerations
Those who are allergic to tree nuts may also be allergic to products that contain black walnut hulls. The FDA does not test or regulate herbal supplements and some herbal remedies may contain contaminants or low-quality herbal ingredients.
Pregnant women and breast-feeding mothers should not use products that contain black walnut hulls, unless directed to do so by their physicians. Do not exceed the suggested dosage on the package, and do not give black walnuts internally to treat a fever. Noted side effects are few, according to the "Gale Encyclopedia," but the herb cannot be deemed safe without clinical testing on humans. Talk to your doctor before using black walnut hull products to treat any medical condition.
References
- "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, Volume 2"; Jacqueline L. Longe; 2005
- American Cancer Society: Black Walnut
- "Prescription for Natural Cures"; James F. Balch, M.D., 2004
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