Evidence supporting the use of: Black walnut
For the health condition: Psoriasis

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Black walnut (Juglans nigra) has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine, particularly among Native American and early European settlers in North America. It has been employed for a variety of skin conditions, including eczema, ringworm, and psoriasis. The hulls of black walnut contain compounds such as juglone, tannins, and flavonoids, which have been attributed with antifungal, antimicrobial, and astringent properties. These traditional uses likely stem from observed effects of black walnut preparations on minor skin infections and irritation.

However, scientific evidence supporting black walnut’s efficacy specifically for psoriasis is minimal. While juglone and other constituents have demonstrated antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties in laboratory studies, there are no robust clinical trials or scientific studies directly evaluating black walnut’s effectiveness in treating psoriasis. Most modern herbal literature references its use for skin health based on historical precedent rather than empirical evidence. Additionally, topical application of black walnut can sometimes cause skin irritation or allergic reactions, which may be counterproductive for people with psoriasis.

In summary, the use of black walnut for psoriasis is primarily rooted in tradition, with scant scientific validation. Individuals interested in using black walnut should consult a healthcare provider, especially given the potential for skin irritation and the lack of evidence for its efficacy in psoriasis management.

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