Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

White oak (Quercus alba) bark has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine, particularly by Native American tribes and early European settlers in North America. It was commonly applied topically as an astringent poultice or wash to support healing of abrasions, cuts, and other minor wounds. The rationale for use lies in the bark’s high tannin content, which provides astringent properties—helping to contract tissue, reduce bleeding, and potentially limit infection. While these effects have been documented anecdotally and in ethnobotanical records, rigorous scientific studies assessing the efficacy of white oak bark specifically for abrasions are lacking. Some laboratory research has demonstrated antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities in oak extracts, which could theoretically benefit wound healing, but this evidence is indirect and not specific to white oak or to the condition of abrasions. Modern herbal texts continue to reference white oak for minor skin injuries, but generally cite traditional usage rather than controlled clinical trials. Therefore, the practice is justified primarily by tradition, with a modest level of supporting evidence derived from its astringent chemical constituents and broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity seen in related studies, but lacking robust clinical validation.

More about White oak
More about Abrasions

Other ingredients used for Abrasions

Other health conditions supported by White oak

Products containing White oak

Nature's Sunshine Pro-Pancreas Formula
Nature's Sunshine White Oak Bark