What is White Willow Bark Good for?
White willow bark comes from the willow tree (Salix alba) and has been used for centuries to alleviate pain and inflammation. Today’s aspirin was synthesized by studying the white willow’s chemical compounds. Description The white willow (Salix alba) is a deciduous tree that grows in moist areas, such as along streams or ponds. It has a weeping habit and can grow to 60 feet or more. History In the first century AD, the Greek physician Dioscorides wrote about the bark of the white willow and its capacity to relieve pain. In the nineteenth century, white willow bark was studied and synthesized into the prototype of aspirin. Medicinal Benefits White willow bark contains a compound known as salicin, which relieves pain and inflammation. It helps ease the symptoms caused by headaches, osteoarthritis, rheumatism and low back pain. It is often used by those who get upset stomachs from aspirin and other pain relievers. Other Uses In New Age practices, white willow bark is used in healing spell
