Description

Black walnut (Juglans nigra ) is a source of food and wellness support for indigenous populations. It is astringent and can be infused, tinctured, encapsulated, or used as a dye for fabrics. Black walnut contains high concentrations of chemicals called tannins, which can reduce pain and swelling and dry up body fluids such as mucous.

People use black walnut to lower the risk of heart disease, for skin wounds, and for other conditions, but more scientific evidence is needed to support these uses.

Precautions
When taken by mouth: The fruit (nut) of black walnut is commonly consumed in foods. But the bark is possibly unsafe. Taking the bark daily might increase the risk for tongue or lip cancer. There isn’t enough reliable information to know if the leaf or the shell of the nut (hull) are safe to use as medicine. These parts of the plant contain tannins, and taking too much tannin can cause stomach upset and kidney and liver damage.

When applied to the skin: Black walnut is possibly unsafe. It contains a chemical called juglone that can irritate the skin.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: The fruit (nut) of black walnut is commonly consumed in foods. But the bark is possibly unsafe. Don’t take black walnut bark by mouth or apply it to the skin. There isn’t enough reliable information to know if black walnut leaf or shell is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. 

Allergies to peanuts and tree nuts: People with peanut allergies are more likely to be allergic to nuts called “tree nuts.” Black walnut is a tree nut. People who are allergic to one tree nut are also more likely to have an allergy to at least one other tree nut.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. For educational purposes only.

We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.