Oak Bark - Φλοιός Δρυός - Quercus Robur / Quercus Alba
Each pack contains ½ cup (125ml) of the Herb. The weight varies due to the density of each herb.
Basic Medicinal Properties:
Oak bark is a powerful astringent herb with anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and wound-healing properties. It supports digestive health, soothes skin conditions, strengthens the gums, and promotes overall immune function. Traditionally, it has been used for treating diarrhoea, skin infections, and sore throats.
Additional Details
Supports Digestive Health and Treats Diarrhoea
Oak bark contains high levels of tannins, which have astringent properties that help tone and tighten tissues. This makes it an effective natural remedy for diarrhoea, gastritis, and inflammation in the digestive tract.
Promotes Wound Healing and Skin Health
With its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, oak bark is commonly used to treat skin conditions such as eczema, rashes, burns, and wounds. Oak bark infusions or ointments have been traditionally applied to help reduce infections and speed up the healing process.
Strengthens Gums and Oral Health
Oak bark has been used in traditional herbal medicine to support oral hygiene. Gargling with oak bark tea can help soothe sore throats, reduce gum inflammation, and combat mouth ulcers.
Supports Circulation and Reduces Varicose Veins
Due to its toning effects on blood vessels, oak bark has been used in herbal remedies for improving circulation and strengthening capillary walls. It may help reduce symptoms of varicose veins and haemorrhoids.
Soothes Sore Throats and Respiratory Conditions
Oak bark’s astringent and antimicrobial properties make it a valuable herb for relieving sore throats, tonsillitis, and respiratory infections. It is often used as a gargle or herbal tea to ease throat irritation.
Rich in Antioxidants and Immune-Boosting Properties
Oak bark contains flavonoids and polyphenols that help protect against oxidative stress and support immune function, promoting overall vitality and resistance to infections.
About the Herb
Historical and Folklore Uses
The oak tree has been revered for centuries as a symbol of strength, endurance, and protection. Ancient civilisations, including the Greeks, Romans, and Celts, used oak bark for medicinal and spiritual purposes.
In medieval Europe, oak bark was a staple in herbal medicine, often used to treat infections, fevers, and digestive complaints. It was also used as a natural dye and in tanning leather due to its high tannin content.
Folklore and Symbolism
Oak trees have long been associated with power, wisdom, and protection. In Norse mythology, the oak was sacred to Thor, the god of thunder, while the Druids believed the tree had magical properties and conducted rituals beneath its branches.
In English folklore, carrying an acorn or a piece of oak bark was believed to bring protection and good fortune. Oak groves were considered sacred places of worship and healing.
Culinary and Traditional Uses
Oak bark has been used in traditional herbal teas and decoctions for digestive and skin health.
It has historically been used in brewing and winemaking to impart rich flavours.
Oak bark extracts have been applied in herbal baths to soothe inflammation and muscle pain.
Interesting Facts
The word “Druid” is believed to come from the Celtic word for oak, highlighting the tree’s sacred status.
Oak trees can live for over 1,000 years, symbolising longevity and resilience.
The tannins in oak bark are used in traditional leather tanning and natural textile dyeing.
During times of scarcity, oak bark was used as an ingredient in bread-making to supplement food supplies.