Quercus alba

Related Terms

Black oak (Quercus tinctoria), British oak, common oak (Quercus pedunculata), durmast oak (Quercus sessiliflora), English oak (Quercus robur), Fabaceae (family), gallotannins, green oak (Quercus virens), holm oak (Quercus ilex), live oak (Quercus virens), Quebec oak, quercetin, red oak (Quercus petraea, Quercus rubra), royal protector, sessile oak, tanner's bark, tannins (phlobatannin, ellagitannins, gallic acid), turkey oak (Quercus cerris).

Background

Of the many species of oak found all over the world, the white oak (Quercus alba) is found primarily in North America. Although there are many species of the Quercus genus, many are thought to have similar properties. The parts of this tree used medicinally are the inner bark and the galls (growths that are produced in reaction to fungi or insects).
Traditionally, Native Americans and European settlers have used white oak for its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties. White oak was listed in the United States Pharmacopoeia from 1820 to 1919, and also in the National Formulary from 1916 to 1936.
Due to a lack of available scientific evidence, it is difficult to determine the safety of white oak. Adverse effects associated with white oak include gastrointestinal irritation, nausea and vomiting, which are theoretically due to its tannin content.

Evidence Table

These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider. GRADE *
These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider. GRADE *
* Key to grades

A: Strong scientific evidence for this use
B: Good scientific evidence for this use
C: Unclear scientific evidence for this use
D: Fair scientific evidence for this use (it may not work)
F: Strong scientific evidence against this use (it likley does not work)
* Key to grades

A: Strong scientific evidence for this use
B: Good scientific evidence for this use
C: Unclear scientific evidence for this use
D: Fair scientific evidence for this use (it may not work)
F: Strong scientific evidence against this use (it likley does not work)

Tradition / Theory

The below uses are based on tradition, scientific theories, or limited research. They often have not been thoroughly tested in humans, and safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider. There may be other proposed uses that are not listed below.

Dosing

Adults (18 years and older):
There is no proven safe or effective dose for white oak. Traditionally, oak bark has been ground to a fine powder and inhaled freely to treat tuberculosis. For diarrhea or dysentery, a decoction of 1 ounce of bark in a quart of water, boiled down to a pint and taken in "wineglassful" doses has been used for no longer than 3-4 days. For chronic sore throat, a decoction of 1 ounce of bark in a quart of water boiled down to a pint and gargled has been used.
White oak has also been applied on the skin. Traditionally, a preparation has been formulated by mixing 2 teaspoons of coarsely powdered bark in 500 milliliters of water, followed by straining the solution. Oak bark is not recommended for topical use longer than 2-3 weeks. A decoction of 1 ounce of bark in a quart of water, boiled down to a pint has been applied topically for bleeding gums or piles.

Safety

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not strictly regulate herbs and supplements. There is no guarantee of strength, purity or safety of products, and effects may vary. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy. Consult a healthcare provider immediately if you experience side effects.

Interactions

Interactions with Drugs
Combining white oak with medications that may damage the liver (hepatotoxic) should be avoided due to possible additive side effects. Caution is advised.
Tannins found in white oak may theoretically have adverse effects on the kidneys; plants with at least 10% tannins may cause kidney damage. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional, including a pharmacist, before combining therapies.

Attribution

This information is based on a systematic review of scientific literature edited and peer-reviewed by contributors to the Natural Standard Research Collaboration (www.naturalstandard.com).

Bibliography

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