C471: Quercus mexican sp

Quercus mexicana is a species of oak. It is widespread in eastern Mexico from Chiapas to Tamaulipas. It is a deciduous tree growing up to 15 metres (49 feet) tall . It has grey bark which is warty and knobbly like an elephants leg. The leaves are thick and leathery, up to 12 centimetres (4+3⁄4 inches) long, oblong or lance-shaped with no teeth or lobes.The tree is harvested from the wild for use as a source of materials, as a medicine and probably also as a food.

All parts of the plant contain tannins. Whilst tannins are found in many foods, and have a range of medicinal uses. They are usually only present in low concentrations. In some foods made from oaks (particularly the seeds), the tannin content can be quite high unless the food is treated to reduce tannin content.

Tannins are only of low toxicity and, because of their bitter taste and astringency, are unlikely to be eaten in large quantities. However, if they are taken in excess, they can cause stomach pains; constipation followed by bloody diarrhoea: excessive thirst; and excessive urination

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6 Figure Grid SO504511