Black walnut trees are native to the Eastern United States, but are a popular ornamental tree planted in many areas of the country. They are easy to recognize because of their very large, dark green leaves and distinctive bark, which often has a very dark color. People and animals, particularly the squirrels in my back yard, like to eat walnuts. The hull or outer shell of the nut and the leaves of the tree have traditionally been used as medicine.
Walnuts, the nut from the tree, have many nutritional benefits. Walnuts are high in protein, healthy fats, vitamins and minerals. Walnuts contain:
- protein
- good fats
- carbs
- fiber
- magnesium
- phosphorus
- potassium
- iron
- zinc
- copper
- manganese
- selenium
Eating walnuts can help decrease cholesterol, improve blood vessel function and reduce the artery plaque.
Black walnut hulls have been used by Native Americans for centuries as part of the treatment for arthritis and rheumatism. Recent research on black walnut hulls has shown that they may be effective in protecting against a variety of health conditions.
What are the health benefits of black walnut hull?
Black walnut hull is an excellent herb that is commonly used for the treatment of a variety of health issues. It is also known as Juglans nigra and has been used for centuries.
The outer shell of the black walnut contains antioxidant and antibacterial compounds that make them beneficial for treating bacterial and parasite infections. This hull has also been associated with reducing heart disease and weight loss.
Prevents infections: High in Tannins – Tannins have antioxidant and antibacterial properties. Hull extracts can prevent the growth of Staphylococcus aureus a bacteria that causes infections. Antioxidants prevent or delay cellular damage caused by free radicals. Tannins help lower blood pressure improving heart health.
Prevents parasites: Wormwood supplements are used as a natural remedy against parasitic infections. Wormwood is made from black walnut hulls.
Source of proanthocyanidins – these protect against sun damage, improve vision and increase blood circulation.
Source of alpha-linolenic acid – which is an omega- 3 fatty acid an essential fat you must get from your diet. ALA is linked to reducing heart disease. Omega-3 fatty acids can help improve high blood pressure and improve cholesterol levels.
How do I take this supplement?
Compounds from black walnut hulls are extracted and put in capsules or liquid supplements. This extract can be taken on its own or found in capsule form in conjunction with other herbal supplements.
What are the side effects and risks of taking black walnut hull?
Do not take black walnut hull extract if you are allergic to nuts, pregnant or breast feeding.
If you have an allergy to tree nuts you need to stay away from eating walnuts or any components of trees that produce nuts.
If you take regular medication, check with your doctor before starting any supplement. Some supplements can counter the effects of prescription medication.
Over consumption of tannins can lead to stomach upset and kidney and liver damage.
Other uses for black walnut hull:
- hair dye
- clothing dye
- make ink
- make tea
- make vinegar
Research is still limited but black walnut hulls are a popular herbal supplement because of their unique plant compounds and antioxidant properties. More studies are needed. Black Walnut Hull extract and Wormwood extract supplements are available in many forms in stores and online.
Black Walnut Hull extract can be helpful in treating some health conditions. #HealthSurgeon
Sources:
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-639/black-walnut
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/black-walnut
https://www.rxlist.com/black_walnut/supplements.htm
