Synopsis

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

White oak (Quercus alba) bark has a long history of traditional use in North America and Europe for the treatment of external ulcerations, wounds, and inflamed skin. Its use is primarily rooted in folk medicine, where it has been employed as a poultice, wash, or compress. The primary active components are tannins, which are astringent polyphenols that help contract tissues, reduce inflammation, and create a protective barrier over wounds. Historical herbal texts, such as those from the Eclectic and Thomsonian traditions of the 19th century, frequently recommended white oak bark for “ulcers, sores, and skin eruptions.”

Modern scientific validation for its efficacy in treating external ulcerations is limited, though the astringent and antimicrobial properties of tannin-rich plants are broadly acknowledged. Some laboratory studies demonstrate that oak bark extracts possess antimicrobial activity against certain bacteria and fungi, which could theoretically support wound healing. However, there are no robust clinical trials specifically evaluating white oak bark’s effectiveness for external ulcerations in humans. Thus, while the traditional use is well documented and the pharmacological rationale is plausible, the overall quality of evidence remains modest. White oak is generally considered safe for topical use on unbroken skin but may cause irritation in some individuals.

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