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Properties of White Willow Bark

The White Willow tree (Salix alba) is a small tree known for its slender, graceful branches. Its long leaves are white on the underside, giving it a silvery glimmer. Native to Europe, White Willows now thrive throughout the Northern Hemisphere. They flourish in wet soil, and can often be found on the banks of lakes and rivers. In folklore and mythology, these water-loving trees have been associated with lunar forces. In ancient Greece, the willow was the patron tree of poets. Since antiquity, White Willow bark has been utilized for its healing properties. The famous Greek physician Hippocrates (460 to 370 BCE) recommended it to reduce fever and inflammation.

  1. Fever and Inflammation Reduction

    • Use White Willow bark tea as an alternative to aspirin.

      As in the time of Hippocrates, White Willow bark is used today to cool fevers and inflamed tissue. It contains salacin, a substance which was used by chemists in the late 19th century to create the drug aspirin. White Willow bark tea may be used as a natural herbal alternative to aspirin and other conventional fever-reducing medicines. Although it may take longer to work, the effects may last longer than aspirin tablets.

      To make White Willow bark tea, take 1 to 2 oz. of the dried herb. Boil it in 8 oz. of water for 10 to 15 minutes. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to steep for an additional 30 minutes or more. Strain the plant matter from the liquid. Drink one cup of tea three or four times daily.

      The herb also is available in capsule or tincture form from many health food stores.

    Pain Relief

    • White Willow bark soothes headaches.

      Another property of White Willow bark, as well as of salacin-derived medications, is pain relief. Studies documented by the University of Maryland Medical Center show the effectiveness of this botanical substance in alleviating pain from headaches, low back pain and menstrual cramps. It also soothes the pain associated with inflammatory diseases such as bursitis and tendinitis, as well as osteoarthritis.

      White Willow bark may cause fewer gastrointestinal problems than other pain relievers such as Aleve. However, this herb should not be used by people with an allergy to aspirin. It is also not recommended for those taking anticoagulents, as it tends to thin the blood. Taken with non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, it may increase stomach bleeding. It is also contraindicated for people taking methotrexate and phenytoin. The effects of White Willow bark on pregnant women are not yet known.

    Cancer Treatment

    • Willow bark has been observed to inhibit tumor growth and initiate apoptosis (programmed cell death) in patients with lung and colon cancer. It also has reduced the number of abnormal cells in patients with leukemia.

    Other Healing Properties

    • In addition to its analgesic, anti-inflammation and anti-cancer attributes, White Willow bark possesses antioxidant, antiseptic and immune-boosting powers. This botanical substance not only provides comfort from pain, but sustains overall health and wellness.

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Herb Basics
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  2. What Evergreen Has White Bark?
  3. White Birch Bark Crafts
  4. Willow Tree Bark Boring Insects
  5. White Willow Bark Supplements
  6. Guarana & White Willow Bark
  7. White Willow Bark Vs. White Willow Bark Extract
  8. Information on White Willow Bark
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  10. Properties of Mullein
  11. About the Herb Willow Bark
  12. White Willow Bark Uses

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