![]() Apply the leaves topically to the affected area as an antiseptic, soothing poultice to reduce swelling, skin irritation or bleeding. ![]() If boiling water is not available, the leaves may be softened by crushing them. ![]() They can be softened by immersing them in boiling water or steaming until limp. Leaves may be used fresh for first aid in the field. Decoctions have been used as douches to treat vaginal infections Oak has been used in the treatment of cholera and gonorrhea. Skin problems such as rashes, irritation and swelling may be relieved with the application of poultices or compresses made from the root bark or leaves. A bark decoction can be used as a gargle to relieve a sore throat. Compresses made from a root bark decoction soothe and shrink hemorrhoids, varicose veins and bruises. A decoction or tincture can be used to heal internal ulcers. Finely powdered dried inner bark can be sprinkled on external ulcers to soothe, reduce swelling, prevent infection and strengthen tissue. It has been used to treat ulcers internally and externally. Finely powdered dried inner bark has been used to control nosebleeds. Decoctions are used to promote healing of bleeding gums when used as a mouthwash. Either a tincture (alcohol extract) or decoction (boiled tea) of root bark is effective. Oak is excellent for controlling loose stools. The plant parts used for healing include the inner bark, leaves and acorns. In addition, oak has been used to get rid of worms and other parasites. Modern scientific research confirms that oak possesses the following healing properties: astringent, fever reducing, tonic, antiseptic, anti-viral, anti-tumor, and anti-inflammatory actions. They reduce inflammation and irritation, especially of skin and mucus membranes. Tannins strengthen tissues and blood vessels. Tannins bind with proteins in tissues, making a barrier resistant to bacterial invasion. Tannins provide many of the healing properties of oak. Oak has been used as a Quinine substitute in the treatment of fevers. The leaves have been employed to promote wound healing. Snuff made from powdered root was used to treat tuberculosis. European herbalists used oak as a diuretic and as an antidote to poison. Many Native American groups used oak to treat bleeding, tumors, swelling and dysentery. Oaks were used as medicine and food for millennia. In many traditions, the oak is revered as a sacred tree. Oaks have been used for ceremony, food, medicine and building for as long as humans have been around. America and the Northern Hemisphere are home to many varieties of oaks.
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