Juglans nigra (Black Walnut)
Juglans nigra Common name: Black Walnut, Butternut
Family: Juglandaceae
Parts used: Green hulls/husks, bark/leaf
Constituents: Bark/leaf: naphthaquinones (juglone), volatile oil, fatty acids, tannins, ellagic acid, gallic acids, flavonoids, EFA, silica, nutrients
Medicinal actions: Alterative, laxative, cathartic, antiseptic, antimicrobial, anthelmintic, astringent, hepatic
Medicinal use: The antiseptic properties (antifungal, antimicrobial) and antineoplastic action give it indication in the treatment of chronic skin conditions associated with a disorder of digestion and assimilation. Used internally for the treatment of worms/parasites, yeast infections and cancer. The bark is a powerful purgative.
Pharmacology:
- Naphthaquinone juglone is anti-fungal, a toxin, antimicrobial, anti-tumor and anti-parasitic. Also has similar laxative effects to anthraquinones in senna.
Pharmacy: Infusion/Decoction: steep 6 hours. Tincture: (1:4, 25%) 5-10 ggt, TID, weekly max 10-15 ml. Pause dosing: 2 weeks on 2 weeks off
Toxicity: N/V and watery catharsis, external application may cause dermatitis (treat by washing area with soap and water). Juglone may cause allergic reaction and genetic mutation with long term use.
Contraindications: Chronic GIT conditions, pregnancy/lactation.
Interactions: None known.