White oak is a hardwood tree found throughout the woodlands of eastern North America. Contrary to its common name, the tree’s bark is actually grey, not white. White oak is prized for furniture making because of its beauty and durability. The hull of the 18th century frigate, the USS Constitution, was made from white oak.
The bark of white oak is attributed with astringent, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory qualities, largely due to a high content of tannins. While the bark may be prepared as a tea or tonic, it is most commonly tinctured. The bark is also used to produce topical formulations for the skin.
