White Willow Bark Benefits & Precautions

White willow bark has been used since centuries as a much safer option instead of aspirin and without any side-effects. Find out in this article its uses and precautions.

Move over, aspirin! I have something to share with you that is better than aspirin and one that is safe, natural, non-toxic without the side effects of aspirin and that is the white willow bark. In fact, many people may not know that aspirin is made from white willow bark...:)


​History of White Willow (Salix alba) -

The white willow is a vibrant, beautiful large tree that grows fast and thrives in moist soils. It has long green leaves that curve and taper towards the ground.

It has been used medicinally for fever, joints, as a mobility support and for aches and pains including back pain and osteoarthritis. It is a species of willow native to Asia (central Asia), Africa and Europe. 

It has weak wood and the tree is prone to attracting pests as well as it is easily damaged by storms. 

Native Americans have used willow bark for pain relief since centuries and today it is again becoming popular for its anti-inflammatory benefits.
​

What are the Benefits of Willow Bark? -


- just like aspirin, you can use willow bark when you have fever, headache, migraine, back pain, joint pain, knee pain or if you suffer from arthritis. Remember, it is always better to opt for natural, safe and effective holistic solutions than any pharma pills or drugs. 


- just like aspirin, white willow bark contains a compound called salicin which is known for its anti-inflammatory, pain relieving properties so willow bark is a great alternative when your body is tired, fatigued and needs some analgesic medicine. 


- stress or overexertion can cause headaches, neck pains, stiffness in the joints or in our shoulders so you can try willow bark on those days and see if it can bring you some relief. 


- women may take willow bark for menstrual pains or from conditions like endometriosis or fibroids in place of aspirin or any other pain reliever that comes with serious side effects. 


- if you're someone who suffers from aches and pains, then willow bark may also have a relaxing, sleep-like effect on you and that is because as it calms your pain centers in the body and brings relief to your body, it will therefore promote good sleep and put you in deep relaxation mode. 


Who Should NOT Take White Willow Bark? -


Do NOT take white willow bark supplements if -

-you are sensitive or allergic to aspirin

-you are pregnant or breastfeeding then please consult your doctor first

-you take blood thinners or NSAIDs or any other drugs as it can slow blood clotting since willow bark contains salicylates and can interfere and cause side-effects or bleeding so please consult with your doctor first

-if you have had surgery, do not take white willow bark

-you suffer from liver or kidney disease, bleeding disorders, stomach disorders or ulcers or respiratory issues like asthma

-do not give to young children without consulting the doctor


So that is it - you can easily find willow bark powder or supplement in capsule form or tea and start this right away. If not for anything, then at least buy it and keep it in your holistic cabinet for when you may need it.

Ref. (1). Ref. (2)