Herbs - Walnut - Ailments / Situations Where Used

Walnut leaves are used in Europe as an old folk remedy for eczema and eyelid inflammations. They are very antiseptic and anti-fungal and are used to destroy intestinal worms. They are used as a digestive tonic, for indigestion and to stimulate a poor appetite.

The walnut is high in omega-3 essential fatty acids (EFA's) and contains vitamins A, B, C, and E and a number of minerals. They help thin people put on weight and build strength. Studies suggest that walnuts delay the hardening of arteries, lower the risk of a coronary and have been shown to drop cholesterol levels. Walnuts are "brain food" (due to the EFA's), but are a little too acidic.

Traditionally, an infusion of the rind was used to darken the hair, treat diarrhea, and as a tonic in anemia. Today an extract of the hulls is used to combat eczema, psoriasis, herpes simplex, skin parasites and many other skin conditions, internally and externally. The inner bark of the tree, which is sometimes referred to as butternut, is a fine laxative and is one of the only few herbal laxatives appropriate for use during pregnancy.

Walnut helps build digestion, stimulates the liver, and is helpful in alleviating many skin conditions. Its antiseptic and anti-fungal properties make it useful for treating Candida.