Quercus robur – cut dry bark

Recognized for its astringent and toning properties, oak bark is used in ancient practices to soothe locally and support skin hygiene. It is still present in regulated pharmacopoeias today.

Description

Dark brown to grayish bark fragments, rough texture, very astringent taste. Intense woody odor.

Nomenclature

• Common names: English oak, common oak
• Latin name: Quercus robur
• Family: Fagaceae
• Part used: Bark
• Shape: Cut
• Origin: Europe, temperate Asia
• English name: Oak bark
• German name: Eichenrinde
• Name in Spanish: Corteza de roble
• Name in Italian: Corteccia di quercia
• Name in Arabic: لحاء البلوط (Liḥāʾ al-bulūṭ)

Main virtues

Traditionally used for its astringent power, oak bark is used in mouthwashes, local treatments, foot baths and plant poultices, all within a framework governed by ancient uses.

Main constituents

Tannins (ellagitannins, gallotannins), flavonoids, gallic acid, quercetin, triterpenes.

Use and dosage

• Decoction: 1 to 2 tablespoons per 500 ml of water. Boil for 10 to 15 minutes. Filter.
• Bath: Add the decoction to bath water for sitz baths or hand/foot baths.
• Recommended for external use only.

Precautions, side effects and contraindications

• Plant containing strong tannins: avoid unregulated internal use.
• Not recommended for people with allergic or hypersensitive skin.
• Prolonged use not recommended without professional advice.

History and origin

Used since ancient times for its purifying properties, oak bark found its place in medieval pharmacopoeias. It was also a central ingredient in natural rural treatments and traditional family remedies.

Miscellaneous information

• Storage: in a dry place, away from light and humidity.
• Packaging: kraft bag, airtight jar or traditional bulk.
• Appearance: Rough, dark brown bark fragments.
• Smell: intense woody.

Sources and references

• Pl@ntUse – https://uses.plantnet-project.org
• Corpus of European herbalism
• Regulated plant references
• Rural herbal medicine texts

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