Benefits
Anti-Parasitic
One of the key benefits of Black Walnut Hulls are their ability to expel various kinds of worms and parasites that live in the intestines. Often making an appearance in parasite cleanses, Black Walnut Hulls contain juglandin, juglone and juglandic acids as well as tannins and organic iodine.
The primary active constituent in Black Walnut is a “naphthoquinone”, known as juglone. Juglone is a natural herbicide that exerts an inhibitory effect on certain enzymes needed for metabolic function. It is thought that the high tannin content is also responsible for the anti-parasitic properties of Black Walnut, helping to eliminate microbes from the large intestine. The high tannin and juglone content is also thought to oxygenate the blood which can kill parasites and working as a laxative, it expels parasites as part of its cleansing of the body.
Anti-Fungal
Intestinal Candidiasis is an overgrowth of the Candida fungus, which can actually weaken the walls of the intestines and release toxins into the bloodstream. This plays havoc with the immune system and can manifest in a whole range of baffling symptoms which can be very difficult to diagnose.
The hulls of the Black Walnut are also powerfully anti-fungal, making them a potential Candida killer that may be even more effective than their pharmaceutical counterparts. A study conducted at the University of Mississippi in the 1990’s showed it was just as effective, if not more effective, to use Black Walnut, as it was commercial antifungal preparations. The active ingredient, juglone, has been shown in studies to have an anti-fungal activity and it can also prevent Candida from growing and spreading due to its inhibitory effect on enzymes in the yeast that are needed for metabolic function.
Digestive Health
Apart from expelling nasty parasites, fungus and bacteria that can interfere with digestion, Black Walnut Hulls promote healthy digestion and gastrointestinal health. They encourage bowel regularity due to their gentle laxative effect and promote healthy bile flow.
The hull of the Black Walnut is said to tone and heal inflamed intestinal tissue, as well as improving the environment of the digestive tract for more effective assimilation and elimination. It is for this reason that Black Walnut is unusually considered a treatment for both constipation and diarrhoea.
It is also effective against Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) - a bacteria that is responsible for the majority of ulcers that occur in the stomach.
Excessive Sweating
In one of the more unusual benefits of Black Walnut, it is known to help to reduce excessive sweating. The high levels of astringent tannins contained in the hulls are believed to have an effect on overactive sweat glands and decrease the amount of sweat they produce.
Folklore and history
According to ancient mythology, when the gods walked the earth they ate Walnuts, hence the Latin name “juglans” is a derivative of the words “jovis glans” which means “Jupiter’s Nut”.
Native American Indians enjoyed the pleasures and health benefits of the Black Walnut well before European explorers arrived. The upper Great Lakes region provides archaeological evidence of walnut consumption dating back to 2000 BC. Along with eating the walnut itself, the Indians used the sap of the walnut tree in their food preparation. Wherever the Black Walnut grows, there is limestone in the soil - a good sign of fertile soil. The early Pennsylvania Dutch made a point of selecting properties that had a stand of sturdy Black Walnut trees on the land, assuring them of rich soil.
Traditional use
The Native Americans used the bark, hulls and the leaf of the Black Walnut tree in their traditional medicine. It was used as a mosquito repellent, for skin disorders and the hulls were used to expel parasites from the intestines.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine they were regarded as a kidney tonic, and the bark, kernel and the hulls were also used to eliminate various types of intestinal worms and parasites.
Typical use
Black Walnut Hulls powder is most commonly ingested by mixing about 1 teaspoon with tea. It can also be encapsulated. It is recommended that you research the precise dosage for the complaint you are using this herbal powder for or contact a Herbal Practitioner.
Black Walnut Tincture can be added to water or fruit juice and taken daily. 20 drops daily – do not use for longer than 2 weeks or as directed by a Herbal Practitioner.
Constituents
Black Walnut Hulls contain juglone, juglandin and juglandic acids, tannins, iodine, omega-3 fatty acids, phytosterols, polyphenols, carotenoids and melatonin
Precautions
Not recommended for long term use, Black Walnut Hulls should not be used regularly for longer than 2 weeks at a time. Do not use if you are allergic to nuts. Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding mothers. If you are taking any medications, please consult your healthcare practitioner before using this product.
