White Willow
(Salix alba)
Botanical Information
The willows are a large group of shrubs or trees from the Willow family found in wet places, with unisexual flowers in spikes called catkins.
Working with White Willow
Part(s) Used
Bark
Herb Forms
Capsule, bulk herb.
Affects
White willow bark is widely known as a headache remedy. It has long been used to reduce fever in colds and flu and, due to its anti-inflammatory effects, relieve pain of carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis, and rheumatism. It contains salicin, which is a naturally-occurring salicylate. Common aspirin is a close relative, though today aspirin is entirely synthesized from petroleum by-products. Willow bark is much milder and not as fast-acting as aspirin; the literature strongly suggests that it will not produce the same side effects as aspirin, such as stomach bleeding and Raynaud’s disease.
White Willow has a taste of BITTER, ASTRINGENT and a temperature of COOL.
Cautions
None noted.
