Juglans cinerea is a tree native to North America, specifically Eastern Canada and the northeastern portion of the United States. The tree can be found in portions of the southern part of the United States as well, though it is much less widespread. Most people are familiar with the tree’s common names, such as butternut, white walnut, and oilnut tree.
Although Juglans cinerea is considered to be a fast-growing tree, it is not an extremely large tree. On average, it will grow to 40 to 60 feet (12.2 to 18.3 m) tall and 12 to 24 inches (30.5 to 61 cm) in width. This deciduous tree has light-colored leaves that are often consumed by deer, and it has brown nuts that provide a hearty source of food for squirrels. In most cases, a tree will live for approximately 75 years. The most common causes of death for the tree include disease, such as butternut canker and fire damage.
There are only a few uses for the Juglans cinerea. The wood is soft, so it does not make good lumber. Some people choose to use it for making wood cabinets and decorative furniture, but harder woods, such as cherry or oak, are more common for interior finishing.
The nuts, leaves, and bark of the Juglans cinerea are often used as a homeopathic remedy for people with a wide range of ailments. The leaves can be boiled and made into tea. By drinking the tea, many people believe that their blood will be cleansed. In addition, if the nuts are picked while they are still green, they can be boiled into another kind of tea. The tea from the green nuts is used to treat inflamed bowels and colitis.
People who suffer from skin conditions, such as eczema, acne, psoriasis and lepra, may use Juglans cinerea as a remedy as well. In addition, the bark of the tree is also believed to treat headaches, elevated cholesterol, arthritis, parasites, liver disease, jaundice, herpes, constipation, and cancer. For intestinal issues, it may work by increasing the amount of bile that is produced and eliminated. It also may force the intestines to become more active.
Side effects for people who use Juglans cinerea as a homeopathic remedy include diarrhea and stomach cramping, specifically for those who use it as a laxative. As with any homeopathic remedy, most people, including pregnant or breastfeeding women, should consult their doctor before using it. There is not a set dosage chart for people who consume it. As a result, it is best to follow a physician’s advice.