The leaves of the walnut tree are of great importance - for several reasons: They are vital for the plant itself and not only absolutely attractive for humans, but also recommended as a remedy. In our guide you will learn all sorts of interesting facts about the leaves of the walnut, from optical characteristics to health-related areas of application.

The walnut leaf is oval and bright green

This is what the leaves of the walnut look like

The walnut tree has imparipinnate leaves with a stalk about three to two inches long. The seven to nine centimeter long pinnate leaves can be shaped in different ways, from elongated-oval to broad-elliptical. In addition, they have narrowed ends on both sides. The terminal leaflet is stalked and much larger than the other leaves.

When sprouting, the leaves of the walnut tree are reddish in color. Later, the color on the upper side changes to a strong medium or dark green. The leaves are lighter on the underside and are only slightly hairy in the nerve corners. In the autumn season, the tone turns into a subtle, barely noticeable yellow-brown.

smell of walnut leaves

When crushed, the walnut leaves give off an aromatic scent. They smell strongly of turpentine.

When the walnut turns green and becomes bare

"The first will be last."

This proverb applies to a certain extent to the walnut tree. It sheds its leaves early in autumn - and then it takes a long time before it sprout again.

In spring, the walnut tree is the last deciduous tree to turn green - even after the oak. There are often no leaves to be seen in early May.

Use walnut leaves as a remedy - tips

The leaves of the walnut tree are used as a remedy - for internal as well as for external use.

You can use either dried or fresh leaves. Walnut leaves are said to be particularly effective against skin ailments. In addition, the leaves are said to help against bacteria, fungi and worms.

Here is an overview of some of the ingredients in the leaves:

  • tannins
  • flavonoids
  • vitamin C
  • Glycosides (juglone)

Tips for external use

For skin diseases such as eczema, psoriasis or athlete's foot, the leaves of the walnut tree are in the form of

  • baths,
  • rinses and
  • envelopes

helpful.

Tips for internal use

It is often worth consuming walnut leaves as a tea for skin diseases, but also for gastrointestinal complaints.

How to prepare a tea with the leaves:

  1. Pour a cup of boiling water over two teaspoons of walnut leaves.
  2. Let the whole thing steep for ten minutes.
  3. Strain the leaves.
  4. Drink the hot walnut tea in small sips.

Drink one to three cups daily. After six weeks of continuous use, you should take a break for several weeks and enjoy another tea first. After that, you can again rely on the walnut tea for six weeks.

Note: The break prevents undesirable long-term effects and also prevents the positive effect from fading due to a habituation effect.

Walnut leaves effective against insects

The essential oils of the walnut leaves keep unwanted insects such as flies, fleas, mosquitoes and moths away. That is why walnut trees are often planted in parks near seating areas and in gardens near compost heaps.

Leaves are vital to the walnut tree

If a walnut tree no longer develops leaves, for example due to severe frost damage, it dies. The tree cannot live without leaves.

Category:

Vegetable garden