White willow

Latin Name Salix alba

Part Used Bark

Affects Blood, Digestive system, Nervous system

Description 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.

Dosage 2-3 x daily