Evidence supporting the use of: Black walnut
For the health condition: Dermatitis

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Black walnut (Juglans nigra) hulls have a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine, especially in North America and Europe. Traditionally, black walnut preparations have been applied topically or consumed internally for various skin issues, including eczema and dermatitis. Folk medicine claims center on black walnut’s purported antifungal, antimicrobial, and astringent properties, believed to help soothe inflamed skin and fight infections that may accompany dermatitis.

Despite its established place in traditional practice, scientific evidence supporting black walnut’s efficacy for dermatitis is limited. Some laboratory studies have demonstrated antimicrobial and antifungal activity of black walnut hull extracts, primarily attributed to the active compound juglone. However, these studies have focused on isolated pathogens or general antimicrobial action, not specifically on dermatitis or eczema in clinical settings. There are no robust clinical trials or high-quality human studies that confirm its effectiveness in managing dermatitis symptoms.

In summary, black walnut’s use for dermatitis is justified primarily by tradition, with minimal scientific support. The evidence rating is low (1), reflecting anecdotal and historical use rather than rigorous scientific validation. Potential users should also be aware of possible side effects, such as skin irritation or allergic reactions, and consult healthcare providers before use.

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