Mostly found in the eastern United States, the white oak tree has long been used not only for its beauty and size, but also for homeopathic remedies. White oak bark is an astringent substance that is used for controlling inflammation of both internal and external varieties. The White Oak tree grows up to 100 feet tall and has a span of nearly 80 feet, but it is characterized most visibly by the light-colored bark of his trunk and branches.
The homeopathic uses for white oak bark are varied and alternative medicine gurus have been using it for centuries to safely and naturally treat many different types of ailments. I first discovered White Oak bark in Kentucky when a friend informed me that making White Oak tea could help the reduce the frequency and severity of my kidney stones. Because it contains zinc, magnesium, calcium and phosphorous, all of which are used to shrink tissues, such as swollen glands.
One major homeopathic use for White Oak bark is the relief of hemorrhoids and gout. Since it can be used both internally and externally, the White Oak bark can do more than a standard ointment or capsule. For internal use, you can take capsules available at most whole health stores or you can brew White Oak bark tea. For the tea, simply place a few strips of the tree’s flesh in a pot with two or three cups of water and boil it until most of the water has evaporated. The longer you boil it, the more potent the tea becomes.
For external use, most people use a paste made from White Oak bark. You can purchase it already packaged or you can create it yourself if you live in an area where white oaks are indigenous. To make the paste, mix the White Oak flesh with root powder and glycerin, then grind it into a paste. Spread the salve on the area you wish to treat and you should experience near-immediate relief.
Historically, Native Americans have found homeopathic uses for white oak bark that will also treat gingivitis. As mentioned above, the astringent qualities of white oak bark can help reduce swelling of the gums. Simply drink the white oak tea and put powdered white oak flesh between your lips and gums every night before you fall asleep. This often works better than more traditional remedies.
Many people have also found relief from varicose veins by making a homeopathic poultice from white oak bark. Simply create the paste as mentioned above, then coat a strip of flannel with the paste and cover the areas with varicose veins. Leave the poultice on for 2-3 hours so that the white oak bark can be absorbed into the skin. Many have experienced relief within only a week or so of using the poultice.
White oak bark is not dangerous as a homeopathic remedy but it can cause dehydration if you use it too often. If you’re drinking the tea every day, be sure to drink an equal amount of water to make sure you don’t dehydrate. For some people, the white oak bark can also cause sleepiness and light-headedness. I’ve never experienced that side-effect, but don’t use it too much until you can gauge its effects on your own body.
