6728. Nutgall

Nomenclature

Galla; galls; Aleppo-galls; Turkey-galls; Mecca-galls.

Description and references

Excrescence from the young twigs of Quercus infectoria Oliv. and other allied species of Quercus, Fagaceae. Habit. Asia Minor (Levant). Constit. 50-60% tannic acid, 2-4% gallic acid, ellagic acids, resin.

Derivative

Chinese nutgall.

Properties

Is the excrescence on the leaf or leafstalk of Rhus semialata Murr., Anacardiaceae. Contains about 70% tannin. Incompat: Alkalies, alkaloids; salts of Cu, Fe, Pb, Zn; AgNO3; opium in soln.

Caution

Irritating to mucous membranes.

Use

Manuf tannin and ink; dyeing; tanning.

Therapeutic Category

Astringent.

Therapeutic Category (Veterinary)

Has been used as a topical astringent.