White Oak Bark Tea
Common Uses and Preparations
A common tree located throughout the eastern region of North America, ranging from Canada to Florida and the Southern states, the white oak is a large tree that can reach 100 feet in height and has a span of up to 90 feet. The name of the tree comes from its white or ash grey color, and grows in a variety of different types of environments, ranging from valleys to mountain ridges. It's well known for being rugged and resistant to rotting. However, the white oak bark tea is also well known to nutritionists and herbalists, as it has been used for years to cure a number of ailments, mostly of the anti-inflammatory variety.
Inside the hardy bark, scientists have pinpointed various resins, tannins, starch, and calcium deposits. These may all help with the anti-inflammatory properties that the tea shows. When preparing white oak bark tea, it's best to use dried bark chips or powder made from the bark. This is steeped in boiling water. Because the tea can be so potent, experts recommend that you drink it at least four hours before or after taking any other medications, especially if they are prescription medicines. This will help lessen the chance of adverse reactions. You should always ask your doctor before trying a new tea like this.
Some of the health benefits that are associated with white oak bark tea include the treatment of kidney stones, digestive inflammations, diarrhea, dysentery, and hemorrhoids. It has been shown to be useful in relieving bouts of gout, as well, and could be used as a topical treatment in skin conditions. Any painful conditions or digestive problems may be eased with regular use of the tea, but it's best to ask about its use ahead of time because it can be quite potent.
Another factor that makes white oak bark tea unique in comparison to other herbal teas that are used for similar conditions is that it is helpful in the treatment of dental issues. If you have swollen gums or gingivitis, the anti-inflammatory properties of white oak bark could help reduce swelling and other symptoms that are associated with oral decay. It's said that Native Americans used to chew on the bark to help prevent tooth and gum disease, because the tannins in the bark have the ability to help fight bacteria and prevent cavities or gum infection. These are all just a few of the common uses throughout the years for this powerful tea.