White oak bark is an herb that is astringent. Astringents tighten loose body tissue. White oak bark is used topically for hemorrhoids, varicose veins, and postpartum perineal care. Families can learn the medical uses, methods of application, and who can safely use white oak bark.I

Personal Story

My family has used white oak bark with success for hemorrhoids. I wish I had known about it when I was having children, since it is well known for being a benefit to women during postpartum perineal care.

Medical Use

It can be used externally by any of the methods mentioned below to reduce the amount of inflammation and local swelling in these situations:

• Hemorrhoids
• Varicose veins
• Postpartum tissue care

Methods of Topical Use

• Sitz bath- especially effective for postpartum perineal care
• Wet compress
• Oil- good for postpartum perineal care
• Poultice
• Salve
• Water-based rinse of oak leaves on a wound

Applying diluted extracts to the swollen tissue with a cotton ball is particularly useful.

Safety

White Oak Bark is Class 2d. White oak bark is not intended for internal use during pregnancy.  It is also specifically contraindicated for topical use when there is extensive skin surface damage, weeping eczema or a large area of skin damage, cardiac insufficiency stages III and IV (NYHA); and hypertonia stage IV (WHO).

Action

Consider using a white oak bark compress if you have body tissue that needs tightening.

May God bless your healthful endeavors!

Joni

P.S. How have you benefited from white oak bark?