English oak bark (Quercus robur)

Rinsing with oak bark tea soothes inflamed and chapped skin, chilblains, weeping eczema, acne and blemishes. It may help those with rheumatism and is also suitable as a gargle.

English oak bark (Quercus robur) is renowned for its effectiveness against various viruses, and the tannins it contains are distinctly astringent. Taken in small amounts, it may ease sudden bouts of acute diarrhea and digestive upsets. Used externally, oak bark can help with inflamed or chapped skin, chilblains, weeping eczema and minor bleeding.

Gargles and mouthwashes prepared from English oak bark are used to calm inflamed gums and the oral cavity, as well as sore throats. Recent studies have shown that tannins from the bark may limit tissue damage in people with rheumatism. To make oak bark tea, simmer one teaspoon in a cup of water for five minutes. Drink two cups a day. For skin rinses, prepare a decoction by simmering 100 grams of bark for 20 minutes. This is suitable for rinsing acne-prone areas, chapped skin, chilblains and weeping eczema.

The bark is collected from young branches in April and May when it separates most easily, then it is cut or crushed. In some regions, oaks are cultivated specifically for bark production. Oak acorns have served as human food since ancient times.

Pliny wrote that acorns taste sweetest when roasted in ash. In many of our regions, oak acorns were a staple food until the early twentieth century. Acorns were also milled into flour and used for bread. Peeled, roasted and ground acorns were used in Germany as a coffee substitute, and in England a special wine is prepared from the leaves of English oak.

Warning!

Oak bark preparations for internal use, including teas, drops and similar forms, should not be taken for longer than four weeks. Those with sensitive stomachs should not drink more than two cups of the tea per day.