Quercus infectoria is a small tree, growing to 1 to 2 metres (4 to 6 feet) in height. It is a species of oak well known for producing galls that have been traditionally used for centuries in Asia medicinally while also used in softening leather and in making black dye and ink.
 
The galls arise on young branches of the tree when gall wasps sting the oak tree and deposit their larvae. The chemical reaction causes an abnormality in the tree, causing hard balls to be formed. They are corrugated in appearance.
 
The galls from Quercus infectoria contain the highest naturally occurring level of tannin, approximately 50–70%,[5] as well as syringic acid, β-sitosterol, amentoflavone, hexamethyl ether, isocryptomerin, methyl betulate, methyl oleanate and hexagalloyl glucose
 
The wide range of pharmacological activities of this plant might support the efficacy of extract preparation of Quercus infectoria that are widely used in Malaysia for treating many kinds of health problems since many decades ago. The nutgalls have been pharmacologically documented on their antiamoebic, anticariogenic, and anti-inflammatory, activities, to treat skin infections and gastrointestinal disorders