Walnut leaves have astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, which is why they are used externally in the form of baths, rinses and poultices for a variety of skin conditions. These include, for example, the treatment of minor superficial wounds and inflammation of the skin, acne, fungal infections, sunburn and superficial ulcers. For excema (itchy lichen) and itchy scalp, walnut is able to relieve itching.
Other uses of walnut leaves
The astringent effect of the leaves is also used to reduce perspiration in cases of abnormal sweating (hyperhidrosis) on the hands and feet.
Less commonly, walnut is used internally, for supportive treatment of skin disorders.
Walnut in folk medicine
In folk medicine, walnut leaves were discovered in ancient times as a remedy for worms and to aid digestion. Today, the drug is used for inflammation of the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract and occasionally still as a remedy for worm infections and for blood purification.
Homeopathic use
In homeopathic medicine, the fresh leaves and fruit peels are used to treat purulent skin rashes, inflammation of the lymph nodes, headaches, liver disorders and diseases of the central nervous system.
Ingredients of walnut leaves
The main effective compounds in walnut leaves are tannins of the ellagitannin type, which account for 10%, and flavonoids, which account for 3-4%. Other constituents are juglone and hydrojuglone, various phenolic carboxylic acids such as caffeic acid and vanillic acid, and essential oil (mainly germacrene D). The leaves also contain remarkable concentrations (0.85-1%) of ascorbic acid, which is pure vitamin C.
Walnut tree: indication
Possible indications of walnut leaves are:
- Skin inflammation
- Inflammation
- Skin condition
- Acne
- Fungal infection
- Sunburn
- Skin ulcers
- Eczema
- Itchy lichen
- Sweating
- Excessive perspiration
- Hyperhidrosis
