Oak has been used as a Quinine substitute in the treatment of fevers. Tannins provide many of the healing properties of oak. Tannins bind with proteins in tissues, making a barrier resistant to bacterial invasion. Tannins strengthen tissues and blood vessels.
The opposite term Occident derives from the Latin word occidens, meaning west (lit. setting < occido fall/set). This term meant the west (where the sun sets) but has fallen into disuse in English, in favor of Western world.
Familiarity information: OCCIDENTAL used as a noun is rare. â¢ OCCIDENTAL (adjective) The adjective OCCIDENTAL has 1 sense: 1. denoting or characteristic of countries of Europe and the western hemisphere. Familiarity information: OCCIDENTAL used as an adjective is very rare.