The pain-relieving properties of aspirin originate in compounds found in the bark of the willow tree. According to "The Healing Herbs," Chinese physicians have been using willow for pain relief, including muscle pain, joint pain, and headaches, since 500 B.C. It contains salicin, which occurs naturally in its bark. Because it is similar to aspirin, be sure to consult your physician before using, particularly if you have stomach concerns or an aspirin allergy.
History
White willow trees belong to the family Salicaceae, according to "The Healing Herbs," of which other members include poplar. Although the Chinese began using it as early as 500 B.C., Europe did not catch on for five more centuries, but once it did, willow was considered useful for almost anything. "The Healing Herbs" lists its uses for pain, as well as staunching bleeding and helping to stop vomiting.
White Willow Constituents
Dr. James Duke, author of "The Green Pharmacy," says that the pain-relieving compounds in willow are called salicylates, which are also found in meadowsweet and wintergreen, and are toxic if ingested. "The Healing Herbs" claims that although salicylates were first found in willow bark, aspirin was actually derived from meadowsweet. The book also states that all three herbs were found to have side effects, like nausea, stomach discomfort, and diarrhea, thus scientists developed acetylsalicylic acid. This version of the herbs became what we consider aspirin, and has less harmful side effects.
White Willow and Inflammation
A study released in 2010 in "Phytomedicine" showed that willow extracts were found to be effective in reducing pain and inflammation. Another study published in "Arzneimittelforschung" in 2005 found that willow bark was just as effective as acetylsalicylic acid in the inhibition of COX-2 and other inflammatory substances, which are often at the heart of pain. The study also stated that in higher doses, willow is actually more powerful in protecting the body from oxidative stress. Both "The Healing Herbs" and "The Green Pharmacy" discuss white willow's use for muscle and skeletal pain relief. Be sure to discuss the use of willow bark with your physician and a licensed herbalist before using.
Willow Bark Remedies
"The Green Pharmacy" recommends steeping white willow bark in two cups of boiling water for 10 minutes. "The Healing Herbs" notes that you can find the powdered form of the herb, and recommends soaking 1 tsp. in 1 cup of cold water for eight hours. Strain, and drink up to three times per day. Willow has a bitter taste, so you can add honey or mix the infusion with other herbal teas to improve the flavor.
Cautions
According to "The Healing Herbs," white willow should not be given to children under age two, or to those under 16 with a cold, flu or chicken pox. People with chronic gastrointestinal conditions should not use willow, and if you have a sensitivity to aspirin, do not use this herb. Always consult your physician before beginning any new herb or supplement, and follow either physician direction or label instructions.
References
- "The Healing Herbs"; Castleman, M; 1995
- "The Green Pharmacy"; Duke, JA, Ph.D.; 1997
- "Phytomedicine"; Anti-inflammatory effects of the willow bark extract STW 33-I (Proaktiv((R))) in LPS-activated human monocytes and differentiated macrophages; Bonaterra, GA, et al; May 2010
