Western Bulk Herbs – Willow Bark

Willow bark comes for a large tree with greyish bark that is rough in texture. Rich in tannins and salicin, which lends to its namesake of Salix. The bark is easily stripped from the tree in the summertime and is used in herbal remedies. The name white willow comes from the pale color of the undersides of the leaves.

A large tree with a rough greyish bark, the twigs being brittle at the base; the leaves are pubescent on both surfaces and finely serrulate; it hybridizes with other species of Salix, it flowers in April and May and the bark is easily separable throughout the summer; flowers and leaves appear coincidently from March to June.

—Constituents—The bark contains up to 13 per cent of tannin as its chief constituent, also a small quantity of salicin.

—Medicinal Action and Uses—Tonic, antiperiodic and astringent. It has been used in dyspepsia connected with debility of the digestive organs. In convalescence from acute diseases, in worms, in chronic diarrhoea and dysentery, its tonic and astringent combination renders it very useful.

—Dosages—1 drachm of the powdered root. 1 or 2 fluid ounces of the decoction.

Latin Name:
Salix Alba

Common Name:
White willow,

Parts Used:
Dried bark

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*Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

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