Does Black Walnut Kill Parasites?

Black Walnuts have been used traditionally as a folk remedy to address various health issues. The primary benefits often mentioned include supporting digestive health, antifungal properties, and, most notably, its ability to combat parasites.

However, the true effectiveness of Black Walnuts in this regard remains to be explored in this article!

What Is Black Walnut?

Black Walnut (Juglans nigra) or Eastern Black Walnut is a deciduous tree native to North America, valued for its health-promoting properties.

The hull of Black Walnut is especially nutrient-rich, containing compounds such as Juglone, tannins, and polyphenols. [1] The kernel of Black Walnut is also very nutritious, with 60% polyunsaturated fats, rich in B vitamins, B6, vitamin E, and riboflavin.

With these components, Black Walnut is thought to offer many health benefits. Traditionally, Black Walnuts have been used to support digestive health, combat fungal infections, and maintain radiant, healthy skin.

Does Black Walnut Kill Parasites?

In fact, the claims and assertions about Black Walnut’s antiparasitic potential are substantiated, primarily derived from its historical usage in traditional medicine.

From the perspective of modern science and medicine, there are explanations for Black Walnut’s ability to kill parasites.

Black Walnut hulls and leaves contain two key components: Juglone and tannins, which have water-absorbing and astringent properties [2] that can help disrupt the protective coating of parasites when they enter the body.

Moreover, Juglone in Black Walnut has strong antibacterial properties [3], helping balance the body’s internal environment and supporting white blood cells, indirectly aiding the body’s ability to combat parasites.

Black Walnut Benefits

Anti-Parasitic

Based on the above scientific basis, Black Walnut shows significant potential in combating parasites. By disrupting the life cycle of parasites, it helps remove them from the body or at least reduces their persistence in the digestive tract!

Anti-Fungal

Because Black Walnut is rich in Juglone, it also has potent antifungal properties. Studies indicate that: “Juglone in these nuts is of great importance for health. This substance has antifungal, antiparasitic, and antibacterial effects… Juglone exhibits broad antibacterial activity, effective against both gram-positive microorganisms (Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus mutans) and gram-negative microorganisms (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa), as well as pathogenic yeasts (Candida albicans).” [4]

Digestive Health

Nutritionally, Black Walnut is an excellent source of vitamins (folic acid, vitamin B5, vitamin B6, tocopherol), minerals (phosphorus, manganese, magnesium, zinc, potassium), omega-3 fatty acids, and phytochemicals. [5]

Additionally, evidence suggests that Black Walnut kernels are highly effective in inhibiting the growth of gut bacteria and may improve conditions such as colic, dysbiosis, etc. [6]

Excessive Sweating

As mentioned above, tannins and Juglone have water-absorbing and astringent properties, which can help reduce sweating and regulate skin secretions more effectively. In fact, there have been some experiments using walnuts in ointment form to regulate hand and foot sweat. [7]

Using Black Walnut For Parasites

Traditional Use

Traditionally, black walnut, including its shells, leaves, and pulp, has been widely used in medicinal tinctures and powders to support the body's efforts in eliminating parasites.

Herbalists often paired black walnut with other antiparasitic herbs like wormwood and clove to develop remedies with improved effectiveness, as these herbs also possess antiparasitic qualities.

Typical Use

Today, Black Walnut are readily available in capsule and powdered forms, mainly supplied by dietary supplement manufacturers. Additionally, some people incorporate Black Walnut directly into their diet, though it has a less pleasant taste than common walnuts.

Black Walnut Dosage

First, you need to know that the appropriate dosage of Black Walnut varies depending on the purpose of use. However, the dosages provided here are derived from surveys conducted by common Black Walnut suppliers, partly because studies on Black Walnut dosage in humans are quite limited.

For addressing parasites, the recommended dosage typically ranges from 250 mg to 500 mg per day, with gradual increases over time. Most capsules contain the appropriate amount of black walnut to assist in removing parasites from the body.

Black Walnut Side Effects And Interactions

However, it’s worth noting that although walnut are relatively safe, excessive consumption over a short period can lead to digestive reactions, primarily gastrointestinal discomfort, bloating, indigestion, nausea, etc.

Additionally, ensure you are not allergic to walnuts in general, meaning you would also be allergic to Black Walnut. Attempting to use Black Walnut when you are allergic could lead to severe consequences. Therefore, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional to ensure safety.

Conclusion

In summary, Black Walnut has a long history in traditional medicine as a natural remedy for parasites, fungi, and digestive health. Although scientific studies are still limited and further development is required, its active compounds show potential in aiding the body’s fight against parasitic infections.

If you are considering using Black Walnut for its antiparasitic benefits, consult a healthcare professional for dosage and potential side effects to ensure safety!