American chestnut (Castanea dentata) is a tree that's been destroyed by a fungal disease. Its leaves and bark have been traditionally used to make medicine.
American chestnut leaf contains chemicals called tannins, which might help reduce swelling.
People use American chestnut for cough, sore throat, and other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.
Don't confuse American chestnut with European chestnut. These are not the same.
Uses & Effectiveness
We currently have no information for AMERICAN CHESTNUT overview.
Side Effects
When taken by mouth: American chestnut is commonly consumed in foods. But there isn't enough reliable information to know if any part of American chestnut is safe or what the side effects might be when used in larger amounts as medicine.
When applied to the skin: There isn't enough reliable information to know if American chestnut is safe or what the side effects might be.
Special Precautions and Warnings
When taken by mouth: American chestnut is commonly consumed in foods. But there isn't enough reliable information to know if any part of American chestnut is safe or what the side effects might be when used in larger amounts as medicine.
When applied to the skin: There isn't enough reliable information to know if American chestnut is safe or what the side effects might be.
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if American chestnut is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.
Interactions
We currently have no information for AMERICAN CHESTNUT overview.
Dosing
Traditionally, American chestnut has been prepared as a tea. But there isn't enough reliable information to know what an appropriate dose of American chestnut might be. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult a healthcare professional before using.
Adamczyk B, Simon J, Kitunen V, Adamczyk S, Smolander A. Tannins and their complex interaction with different organic nitrogen compounds and enzymes: old paradigms versus recent advances. ChemistryOpen. 2017;6(5):610-614. View abstract.
Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Title 21. Part 182 -- Substances Generally Recognized As Safe. Available at: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfcfr/CFRSearch.cfm?CFRPart=182
McRae JM, Kennedy JA. Wine and grape tannin interactions with salivary proteins and their impact on astringency: a review of current research. Molecules. 2011;16(3):2348-64. View abstract.
Weiner MA, Weiner JA. Herbs that heal: prescription for herbal healing. Mill Valley, CA:Quantum Books, 1999.
CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.