Unveiling the therapeutic potential of Mazu (Quercus infectoria Olivier): A review of ethnopharmacology and phytopharmacology

Abstract

Mazu (Oak Galls) are abnormal growths that develop on the young branches of Quercus infectoria Olivier, a species in the Fagaceae family, resulting from the larvae of the gall wasp Adleria gallae-tinctoriae. The tree generally reaches a height of around 2 meters and is commonly found throughout the Mediterranean area, including Greece, Asia Minor, Syria, and Iran. In the Unani system of medicine, galls have been utilized for centuries to address a range of ailments, with extensive mentions in classical Unani texts. From a pharmacological perspective, oak galls are believed to exhibit various biological activities, such as astringent, styptic, desiccant, local anesthetic, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. The medicinal application of galls has gained popularity in recent times for treating conditions like diarrhea, bleeding, ulcers, hemorrhoids, skin and oral ailments, as well as a range of other health concerns. Oak galls have the highest natural concentration of tannins, ranging from 50-70%, along with compounds such as syringic acid, β-sitosterol, and amentoflavone. They also contain 2-4% each of gallic and ellagic acids, which polymerize to form tannins. In addition, galls have been utilized for softening leather and for producing black dye and ink.