Butternut (Juglans cinerea)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Juglandaceae
• Common Names: Butternut, White Walnut
• Parts Used: Bark, inner bark, leaves, nuts

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Description

Juglans cinerea is a deciduous tree native to North America, known for its deeply furrowed bark and edible nuts. The inner bark has been traditionally used for its laxative, hepatic, and antiparasitic properties, while the leaves and nuts have additional medicinal benefits.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used by Native American tribes as a laxative and for liver and digestive health.
• Employed in traditional Western herbalism for its depurative (blood-cleansing) effects.
• Used as an anthelmintic (anti-parasitic) to expel intestinal worms.
• Historically applied externally for skin conditions and wounds.

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Constituents

• Juglone (a natural antimicrobial compound)
• Tannins
• Naphthoquinones
• Flavonoids
• Essential oils

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Actions

• Laxative
• Hepatic (liver-supporting)
• Antiparasitic
• Astringent
• Antimicrobial
• Blood purifier

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Medicinal Uses

1. Digestive and Liver Health:
Butternut is traditionally used to stimulate bile flow, cleanse the liver, and relieve chronic constipation.

2. Antiparasitic and Antimicrobial Properties:
Helps expel intestinal worms and has natural antibacterial and antifungal effects.

3. Blood Purification and Detoxification:
Traditionally used as a depurative to clear toxins from the body.

4. Skin Health and Wound Healing:
Applied externally for eczema, sores, and infections due to its astringent and antimicrobial properties.

5. Immune and Respiratory Support:
Historically used for lung congestion and as a supportive herb for immune function.

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Preparation and Dosage

Decoction:

• 1-2 tsp of dried bark per cup of water. Simmer for 15-20 minutes and drink up to twice daily.

Tincture:

• 2-5 ml taken up to 3 times daily.

Infused Oil (Topical Use):

• Applied externally for skin conditions and wound healing.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Avoid use due to its strong laxative effects.
• Gastrointestinal Sensitivity: May cause cramping or diarrhea in sensitive individuals.
• Long-Term Use: Prolonged use may deplete electrolytes due to its laxative properties.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional Western Herbalism: Warming and drying; supports digestion, liver function, and detoxification.
• Native American Medicine: Used for cleansing the body and purifying the blood.
• Ayurveda: Primarily balances Kapha and Vata, but excessive use may aggravate Pitta.

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Combinations

• For Liver Support: Combine with dandelion and milk thistle.
• For Digestive Health: Combine with ginger and fennel.
• For Skin Conditions: Combine with burdock and red clover.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Inner bark is collected in spring or autumn.
• Drying: Air dry in a well-ventilated, shaded area.
• Storage: Store dried bark in airtight containers away from moisture and light.

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Modern Research

Studies confirm Juglans cinerea’s antimicrobial, hepatic, and laxative effects, reinforcing its traditional applications.

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Butternut remains a valuable herb in both traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for liver health, detoxification, and digestive support.