Walnuts are one of the best things in nature. A nutritious food, the meats nourish the brain, keep the circulatory system healthy, and provide important vitamins and minerals to the diet. Walnuts are packed full of essential fatty acids and are helpful in lowering cholesterol.

The bark and leaves of the tree are also useful. Considered a potent remedy in herbal medicine, walnut leaves are very astringent and antiseptic. They are used to promote bile flow. The inner bark of the walnut tree is used as an effective laxative.

Walnut is used to expel worms, as a digestive tonic, as a purgative, and an anti-inflammatory. Walnut hulls also contain anti-fungal properties. Infusions of the rind are good for eczema and eyelid inflammation. Walnut tinctures and infusions are used in the treatment of athlete’s foot, acne, boils, other skin infections, cysts, respiratory problems, asthma, diarrhea, constipation, anemia, dandruff, and excessive perspiration of the hands and feet.

To make walnut tincture, gather walnuts that have fallen off of the tree in late fall. Gather the greenest colored hulls that are free from cracks. Wash well with plain water (no fluoride or chlorine) and scrub with a brush if necessary to get all of the dirt off. Put the walnuts in a large, stainless steel pot or bowl with a tight fitting lid. (Glass containers are also appropriate but never use aluminum.) Completely cover the walnut hulls with vodka or grain alcohol. Let walnuts sit in alcohol for three or four days then pour the brownish liquid into tightly capped glass jars. Discard walnuts (squirrels love them). Store the walnut tincture in the refrigerator or freezer for up to three years.

When treating stubborn parasites, dosage is five to ten drops a day for up to three months. For best results, combine the walnut tincture with wormwood and freshly ground cloves. Some herbal practitioners advise their patients to take a tablespoon of the tincture once a week. Consult with a healthcare professional for exact dosage recommendations.

Walnut leaves and hulls can be soaked in water for several days and then used as a natural pest control. The resulting liquid will kill worms in the lawn or garden without harming plants. Walnut infusions can also be used as a permanent ink or hair coloring.

Walnut trees grow to a height of 60 feet with a large spreading top and thick trunk. The wood is used in furniture making and is an excellent material for gun stocks. Walnut trees must have full sun. They are draught hardy and do best when protected from the wind. Walnut trees are grown for the fruit, the wood, and the oil. Walnut oil is expensive, but delicious in salad dressings.

After shelling, walnut meats become rancid in just a few weeks. Store them in the freezer for up to a year.

*Walnut tincture should only be taken internally under the direction of a licensed healthcare professional. Always consult with a healthcare professional before taking any herbal remedy especially if pregnant, nursing, or taking other medicines.