White Willow Bark - Λευκή Ιτιά - Salix Alba
Each pack contains ½ cup (125ml) of the Herb. The weight varies due to the density of each herb.
Basic Medicinal Properties:
White willow bark is a potent medicinal herb with analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and fever-reducing properties. It helps relieve pain, reduce inflammation, support joint health, and promote cardiovascular wellness. Traditionally, it has been used as a natural remedy for headaches, arthritis, and fever.
Additional Details
Natural Pain Relief and Anti-Inflammatory Effects
White willow bark contains salicin, a natural compound that the body converts into salicylic acid, the active ingredient in aspirin. It has been used for centuries to relieve headaches, muscle pain, and joint discomfort.
Supports Joint and Bone Health
Due to its powerful anti-inflammatory properties, white willow bark is commonly used to ease symptoms of arthritis, gout, and rheumatism. It helps reduce swelling and improve mobility in those suffering from chronic pain conditions.
Reduces Fever and Supports Immune Function
Traditionally used as a febrifuge (fever reducer), white willow bark helps lower fevers and support the immune system during colds and flu.
Promotes Heart Health and Circulation
The cardiovascular benefits of white willow bark stem from its ability to improve circulation and reduce inflammation in the blood vessels. Some herbalists suggest that it may help regulate blood pressure and promote overall heart health.
Aids Digestion and Gut Health
White willow bark has mild astringent properties, which can help soothe digestive issues such as diarrhoea, bloating, and indigestion.
Rich in Antioxidants and Protective Compounds
White willow bark contains polyphenols and flavonoids that provide additional health benefits, including protection against oxidative stress and free radical damage.
About the Herb
Historical and Folklore Uses
White willow bark has been used for over 2,000 years as a natural pain reliever. The ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans documented its use in treating fever, pain, and inflammation. Hippocrates, often called the “father of medicine,” recommended willow bark as a remedy for headaches and muscle pain.
In medieval Europe, white willow bark was commonly included in herbal apothecaries as a general pain remedy. By the 19th century, chemists isolated salicin from willow bark, leading to the development of modern aspirin.
Folklore and Symbolism
White willow trees have long been associated with healing, wisdom, and intuition. In Celtic tradition, the willow tree was sacred to the moon and was believed to enhance psychic abilities and dreams.
In European folklore, willow branches were used to ward off evil spirits and protect against misfortune. Some traditions believed that planting a willow tree near a home would bring blessings and good fortune.
Culinary and Traditional Uses
White willow bark is commonly brewed into herbal teas and tinctures for pain relief and fever reduction.
It has been historically used in natural salves and liniments for joint and muscle pain.
Some traditional cultures chewed the bark directly to extract its medicinal properties.
Interesting Facts
The discovery of salicin in white willow bark led to the development of aspirin, one of the most widely used pain relievers in the world.
Unlike synthetic aspirin, white willow bark does not typically cause stomach irritation when used in moderate amounts.
The willow tree has been referenced in literature and mythology for centuries, symbolising resilience, adaptability, and healing.
The flexible nature of willow wood has made it valuable in crafting baskets, tools, and even musical instruments.