Gauls

Botanical description. Externally, galls look like spherical formations with a diameter of 1.5 to 2.5 cm. These pathological growths of cells on the leaves and shoots of the infective oak gall (Quercus infectoria Oliv.) occur after the laying of eggs by the oak leaf gallworm (Cynips tinctoria). Quercuf infectoria is native to Asia Minor and Mesopotamia. The galls (“ink nuts”) formed on it are collected in August-September.

Active ingredients. Gall nuts contain up to 70% tannin, a mixture of tannins.

Application. Previously, galls (usually a tincture prepared from them) were used for rinsing and irrigating the mouth for inflammation of the mucous membranes of the mouth and throat, for lubricating and cauterizing frostbitten areas, and rarely internally for diarrhea. Basically, galls serve as a source of tannins and are used in the manufacture of ink and in the dyeing industry.