OVERVIEW
The weeping willow tree is a symbol of my childhood. I grew up playing under a massive willow in my grandma’s backyard, then moved in with her from age 15-25 and it became my daily view out of my bedroom window, then the tree my daughter and I would sit under in the summer. Eventually, it grew so large that it became dangerous to have arching over the house, so it was cut down. I didn’t have much of a connection with it at the time, but now, every time I see a weeping willow, it brings this feeling of sweet, and kind of sad nostalgia. I now realize what a true beauty this tree was, and how lucky I was to grow up along side of one.
It’s crazy, because as my grandma gets older, she’s struggled immensely with joint and bone pain. I was talking with her about formulating something for her pain, only to realize that the bark of a willow tree is one of the best for relieving musculoskeletal pain. Isn’t that wild…that she had this medicine right outside of her door for 30+ years? That’s usually how it works if you look around; the local plants and trees are almost always the perfect fit for you, you don’t have to search far for the perfect medicine. I believe God has a way of doing that for us.
HOW IT WORKS WITH THE BODY
The bark of white willow contains salicin, which is a chemical similar to aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid). In combination with the herb's powerful anti-inflammatory plant compounds, salicin is thought to be responsible for the pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects of the herb. In the 1800s, salicin was actually used to develop aspirin. White willow appears to bring pain relief more slowly than aspirin, but its effects may last longer, WITHOUT the serious negative gastric side effects that come along with aspirin.
Willow bark is helpful in mild flus and colds with fever, mild headaches and other pain and conditions caused by inflammation such as arthritis/rheumatoid arthritis, connective tissue disorders, gout, muscular rheumatism, joint pain, OA, osteoporosis, tendinitis, sprains, sciatica and neuralgia.
In cases of menstrual cramps, specifically lower back pain associated with menstruation, willow bark is a great option.
CAUTIONS
DO NOT take willow bark if you have a sensitivity or allergy to aspirin.
Do not take with any over the counter NSAID’s and do not use more than the recommended dosage. not recommended during pregnancy.
It’s always best to try new herbs in small amounts and to consult with your physician prior to taking any new herbal supplements, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition, or are taking any medications.
Check out our offerings that contain White Willow Bark:
*Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not a replacement for professional medical/health advice. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration, and is not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Before taking any actions based upon such information, it is encouraged to consult with the appropriate professionals. Please consult with your physician prior to the use of any herbs, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition, or are taking any medications.