Botanical Overview
Quercus robur (cortex), commonly known as English oak or oak bark, belongs to the Fagaceae family. The medicinal part used is the bark, harvested predominantly in European and Western Asian regions. Oak bark has a long history of use in traditional Western herbal medicine.
Energetics
Oak bark is considered cooling in temperature and drying in moisture, with bitter and astringent tastes. It has a tonifying effect on the qi but shows no specific directionality.
Primary Actions
- Astringent
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antimicrobial
- Antidiarrheal
- Styptic
Indications
Western
- Diarrhea
- Skin inflammation
- Wounds
- Varicose veins
- Hemorrhoids
- Mucosal bleeding
Syndromes
- Inflammatory skin conditions
- Chronic diarrhea
- Venous insufficiency
TCM
Not established.
Ayurveda
Not established.
Unani
Not established.
Constituents & Mechanisms
Rich in tannins, flavonoids, gallic acid, ellagic acid, and proanthocyanidins, oak bark exhibits astringent, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Dosage & Preparations
- Infusion: 2-4 g in 150 ml water, 2-3 times daily
- Decoction: used topically in baths or compresses
- Tincture (1:5, 40% ethanol): 2-5 mL, 2-3 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Generally safe when used appropriately. Prolonged or high-dose internal use is discouraged due to potential gastrointestinal irritation from tannins. Avoid in pregnancy, lactation, or in individuals allergic to tannins. Oak bark may reduce drug absorption and interact with other astringents.
Astrological Correspondences
No reliably sourced planetary or elemental rulerships found.
Selected References
- Assessment report on Quercus robur L., cortex – European Medicines Agency
- Quercus robur – Oak – Plants For A Future
- Herbal Pharmacopoeia of Oak Bark – American Herbal Pharmacopoeia
- Herbs at a Glance: Oak bark – NCCIH