Origin. - An excrescence on Quercus infectoria Olivier, caused by the punctures and deposited ova of Cynips tinctoria Olivier.

Quercus infectoria is a small tree, or more often a shrub, 4 to 6 feet (1.2-1.8 M.) high, indigenous in the basin of the Mediterranean.

Description and Properties. - Nutgalls are subglobular, about 1 inch (25 Mm.) in diameter, more or less tuberculated above, otherwise smooth, heavy, hard; often with a circular hole near the middle communicating with the central cavity containing either the parlly developed insect or pulverulent remains of it; inodorous; taste strongly astringent.

Galla in substance is seldom given internally.

Official Preparations

Tinctura Gallae - Tincturae Gallae - Tincture of Nutgall. - Dose, 1-2 fluidrams (4.0-8.0 Gm.) [1 dram (4 Cc), U. S. P.].

Unguentum Gallae - Unguenti Gallae - Ointment of Nutgall. - Used externally.

Physiological Action. - Its action is that of tannic acid, which is derived from galls.

Therapeutics. - Externally and Locally. - Galla, in combination with stramonium liniment or 1 dram (4.0 Gm.) of powdered opium to each ounce (32.0 Gm.) of nutgall ointment, is an excellent application for external hemorrhoids. For eczema of the scalp, herpes, fissured nipples, indolent ulcers, and chilblains nutgall ointment has proved beneficial, as well as for alopecia circumscripta and rectal prolapse. One part of powdered galls to seven or eight of vaseline is a most excellent application for lessening the cicatricial contraction following extensive burns. Galla is used little locally, but is recommended as a gargle and wash, being applied to the relaxed mucous membranes of the mouth, vagina, and rectum. Administration. - Galls are used mostly in the form of an infusion or ointment. The tincture is seldom employed.