White Willow Bark Extract

Species name: Salix Alba

Also known as: White Willow, Black willow, weeping willow, Salicin willow

What is White Willow Bark Extract? White willow bark extract originates from the white willow tree. This beautiful tree has leaves covered in white hair, hence, its name.

The leaves are paler than those of other willow trees. White willow trees are native to Europe, Asia and North America.

White willow bark extract has been used as a treatment since ancient times. In fact, it can be traced back to Ancient Egypt where it was often used to treat inflammation, headaches and fevers. Hippocrates even specifically refers to its healing abilities.

It is the compound salicin that is believed to be the most important component of white willow bark. Salicin converts to salicylic acid in the body. In fact, salicin was so popular that in the 19th century, synthetic salicylic acid was created to assist people with pain.

Due to the fact that salicin was so expensive, people sought an alternative and less expensive option. Today, we still use synthetic salicylic acid. It is produced under the name “aspirin.”

While aspirin negatively impacts the stomach lining; the salicin in white willow bark extract is a natural substance, that side effect usually does not accompany its usage.

However, studies have shown that white willow bark is equally as effective as aspirin in reducing inflammation.

Home Remedies using White Willow Bark Extract:

Benefits of White Willow Bark Extract:

Tea can be made from white willow bark. Simply boil 1 teaspoon of dried bark for 10-15 minutes, and then steep in hot water for 30 minutes. When 3-4 cups of white willow bark extract tea are consumed daily, this can effectively treat pain in the joints, back pain, and inflammation. Many people with osteoarthritis, tendonitis and bursitis turn to white willow bark extract.

Quite frequently, those with the flu can find significant relief through taking white willow bark extract. It reduces fever and effectively treats headaches. Other usess of white willow bark extract are:

• Treats menstrual cramps
• Relieves headaches
• Reduces fever
• Assists with flu
• Benefits tendonitis
• Treats osteoarthritis
• Aids with weight loss
• Benefits bursitis

White willow bark extract is available in dried form, in tinctures, or in capsule form.

Side Effects of White Willow Bark Extract:

Those with sensitivity to aspirin may be impacted by white willow bark extract.

Also due to its blood thinning properties, people who are undergoing surgery should avoid white willow bark.

Other side effects of white willow bark extract in large doses include tinnitus, ulcers and stomach issues, nausea, rash, dizziness and gastrointestinal bleeding.

Children should not be administered white willow bark, as it can occasionally cause Reye syndrome.