ΚΑΡΥΑ
Juglans regia
(Walnut)
Botanical info:
Walnut is a tall deciduous tree growing up to 25 – 35 m tall with a spreading rounded crown. It is naturally found in mixed broadleaved forests of moderate altitude preferring moist positions. Its native range is the Balkan peninsula, and Asia Minor extending eastward to Caucasus. Flowering May to June.
Hippocratic legacy:
a. In Regimen 2:
a. Walnuts are indigestible and secretive when cleaned, but the shells are astringents.
b. In Diseases 2:
a. Walnuts from Thasos with wine and tree wormwood are used for the treatment of jaundice.
c. In Nature of Women:
a. As a measure of size.
d. In Diseases of Women 1:
a. As a measure of size.
Other uses:
Other plants often will not grow under walnut trees because the fallen leaves and husks contain juglone, a chemical which acts as a natural herbicide. Horses that eat walnut leaves may develop laminitis, a hoof ailment.