Walnut Leaf
Today we have a special guest blog written by North Buffalo native, Susan Latona. She and her husband Tavie have been gardening for over 14 years! And she’s going to share a few of her secrets with us.
According to herbalists (http://wholehealthchicago.com) the walnut leaf has healing properties. High concentrations of astringent compounds called tannins are found in the walnut leaf. Popular treatments for the leaf include topical preparations for the treatment of eczema and excessive sweating for the hands and feet.
In France the leaf is used for sunburn and the treatment of dandruff. In Italy the preparation was used for repelling insects. According to researchers walnut leaves (as do the nuts) have bacteria-killing and anti-parasitic properties.
Tea can be made from the leaves and is said to be excellent for digestion.
Preparation: Dry the walnut leaf and chop before boiling them to make a strong tea. Once cooled, the tea can be used in compresses and rinses for the skin. To make a decoction (boiled tea) uses 1.5 ounces of dried leaf per 8 ounces of water, bring mixture to a boil and simmer gently for about 15 minutes. Adjust strength to personal preference.
In France the leaf is used for sunburn and the treatment of dandruff. In Italy the preparation was used for repelling insects. According to researchers walnut leaves (as do the nuts) have bacteria-killing and anti-parasitic properties.
Tea can be made from the leaves and is said to be excellent for digestion.
Preparation: Dry the walnut leaf and chop before boiling them to make a strong tea. Once cooled, the tea can be used in compresses and rinses for the skin. To make a decoction (boiled tea) uses 1.5 ounces of dried leaf per 8 ounces of water, bring mixture to a boil and simmer gently for about 15 minutes. Adjust strength to personal preference.
Black walnut tree In Susan’s yard
When I purchased my 100 year old house the grounds and home were in a state of total and prolonged neglect. But…one of the treasures that captured my attention was this mighty black walnut tree. Having the privilege of living alongside this tree I am graced by its beauty and bounty. (I think the tree looks like a mighty hand emerging from the earth and one day I would love to have a platform so I can sit in its canopy…childhood memories of always wanting a tree house!)The tree is late to awaken and early to sleep and I reason it is because of its production of the black walnuts that captures so much of its energy and makes its leaf canopy the shortest duration on the street.
The nuts each season are prolific and I have as yet figured out the most efficient method of harvesting them. My research has suggested everything from driving over the hard shell with my car, to boiling them first and drying, to purchasing an antique corn husker. In my retirement I will devote myself to cracking these hardy nuts and finding a means to distribute them. For right now the squirrels are reaping the benefits!
The black walnut has had many uses…Its shell makes for an excellent dye…the nuts can be turned into flour or appreciated on their own with the many health benefits afforded by its essence. The hard wood is highly valued in furniture making.
Susan with her husband Tavis in their North Buffalo garden
Hey Susan! I live in Romania where walnut trees are in abundance – we use a hammer to crack the shells! But obviously be mindful of your fingers. All the best! Ally