Quercus infectoria Galls: Phytochemistry, Pharmacological Mechanisms, Translational Potential, and Nanotechnology-Based Applications.

Abstract

The galls of Quercus infectoria (Aleppo oak), known as Mazoo in Iranian traditional medicine, are tannin-rich plant structures that have long been used to treat gastrointestinal, dermatological, gynecological, and oral disorders. This narrative review synthesizes the literature published between January 2001 and August 2026 (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar) on the phytochemistry, pharmacological mechanisms, nanotechnology-based applications, safety, and translational potential of Q. infectoria galls. Evidence obtained directly from galls is presented separately from findings on other parts of Q. infectoria (fruit hulls and acorn shells), on other Quercus species, and on isolated constituents such as tannic, gallic, and ellagic acids; the latter are discussed only as indirect, supporting evidence. Gall extracts, rich in hydrolyzable tannins, have shown antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, wound-healing, metabolic, and anticancer activities in experimental models, with antimicrobial, antioxidant, and wound-healing effects being the most frequently reported. The proposed mechanisms involve modulation of oxidative stress, inflammatory and macrophage signaling, apoptosis, and microbial virulence; however, most derive from single in vitro, in silico, or animal studies and remain unconfirmed. Nanotechnology research has focused on the green synthesis of metal and metal oxide nanoparticles in which gall extracts serve as reducing and capping agents. These materials should not be regarded as drug-delivery systems, because evidence for drug loading, controlled release, targeting, pharmacokinetic improvement, and enhanced bioavailability is lacking. Clinical evidence is limited to a few studies of topically applied preparations, namely a trial in diabetic ulcers and trials of vaginal preparations. Data on long-term toxicity, pharmacokinetics, herb-drug interactions, and chronic use are scarce. Priorities for future work include botanically authenticated and standardized preparations, rigorous mechanism-based studies, reproducible nanoformulations, systematic pharmacokinetic and safety evaluation, and well-designed clinical trials.

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