Evidence supporting the use of: Oak
For the health condition: Skin (infections)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Oak, particularly from species such as Quercus robur (English oak) and Quercus alba (white oak), has a long tradition of use in herbal medicine for the treatment of skin infections and related conditions. The medicinal use is primarily based on historical and ethnobotanical records, where oak bark and occasionally leaves were prepared as washes, poultices, or decoctions to address wounds, ulcers, eczema, and inflamed or infected skin. This traditional application is attributed to the tannins found in oak, which have astringent properties thought to help contract tissues, reduce inflammation, and limit microbial growth on the skin.

However, while these traditional uses are well documented in European and North American folk medicine, there is limited scientific validation from modern clinical studies. Some in vitro research indicates that oak bark extracts possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, but robust human clinical trials are lacking. Thus, while the use of oak for skin infections is justified by tradition and some laboratory evidence, the overall quality and quantity of scientific backing is low, meriting a moderate evidence rating.

In summary, oak is used for skin infections primarily due to traditional practices rather than strong scientific validation. Its astringent and potentially antimicrobial effects are plausible, but more rigorous research is needed to substantiate its efficacy and safety for this indication in modern clinical settings.

More about Oak
More about Skin (infections)

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Products containing Oak

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