White Willow Bark

White Willow has been used for centuries to reduce fevers and reduce pain. It is closely related to the common aspirin. It is great for fever, chills, and rheumatism or arthritis. White willow is usually found next to water, rivers, streams and ponds. The long slender leaves contain salicylic acid, which has been synthesized into acetylsalicylic acid, known as aspirin, which has been used for centuries worldwide as a pain reliever.

Willow bark contains other compounds that the body metabolizes to salicylic acid. Because of this willow
bark acts more slowly and over a longer period of time than aspirin does. The compound salicin from willow
doesn’t cause the gastric or intestinal upset or bleeding as aspirin can. This is because willow suppresses the
action of prostaglandins (hormone-like substances) in the stomach or intestines, which are produced by the
body in response to injuries.

Willow bark is an excellent aspirin substitute -has effective pain relieving and fever lowering properties.
It’s been shown effective in the treatment of gout, minor muscle strains, menstrual cramps, headache, and toothache. It reduces inflammation and is used topically for sores and burns, pain and inflammation of arthritis

The part used is the mature bark, either fresh or dried.

As a tea: Steep 1 to 2 tsp. of powdered bark in 1 cup boiling water overnight then strain. Drink a cup a day. The bitter taste can be improved by mixing with honey and lemon or another herbal tea.

Side Effects include upset stomach, nausea, and even ringing in the ears may result. Lower the dosage or stop using white willow; call your doctor if symptoms persist. Children under the age of 16 should not use
white willow if they have a cold, influenza, or other viral illness because of the association of Reye’s
syndrome, a potentially fatal condition. People with ulcers or other stomach problems should not use white willow. Do not mix white willow with aspirin.

Antiperiodic: This herb prevents the regular recurrences of a disease or symptoms such as malaria

Astringent: This herb has a constricting or binding effect, for example: one that checks hemorrhages or secretions by coagulation of proteins on a soft surface

Antiseptic: This herb combats and neutralizes pathogenic bacteria and prevents infection

Anodyne: This herb reduces pain

Diaphoretic: This herb causes perspiration and increases elimination through the skin

Diuretic: This herb increases the secretion and flow of urine

Febrifuge: This herb reduces fever

Tonic: This herb restores, nourishes, and supports the entire body; it exerts a gently strengthening effect on the body