General Information
OTHER NAMES: Willow tree, Salix, salicylic acid
HISTORY: The first Aspirin-like compound (salicylic acid) came from a willow tree and was used around 3000-1500 BC, in Egypt, Sumer and Assyria used to reduce pain. Ancient Greece discovered its medicinal properties and, centuries later, scientists discovered that willow could be used to reduce fevers as well. Teas were made from willow leaves, roots, and willow bark. By the 1800's the product was further perfected by pharmacists - Bayer came out with the extremely popular pain relieving product, "Aspirin".
PROPERTIES: Anti-inflammatory (NSAID), antipyretic, antithrombotic (anti-clotting), antioxidant, antiseptic, analgesic
Considered Uses
Respiratory: Congestion, flu, cold symptoms
Gastrointestinal: Toothaches
Genitourinary: Dysmenorrhea (menstrual cramps)
Musculoskeletal: Back pain, joint pain, osteoarthritis, gout, myalgia, rheumatoid arthritis
Neurologic: Headache
Other: Obesity, fever
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SIDE EFFECTS: Headache, dizziness, kidney failure (large amounts), stomach upset, itching, rash, increased bleeding, heartburn, vomiting, diarrhea
CAUTION/CONTRAINDICATIONS: Should not be used by those sensitive to aspirin, stomach ulcers, diabetes, asthma, liver disease, kidney problems, clotting disorders, people on blood thinners
FORMS: Extracts, salves, capsules, powders, solids (bark), creams
Recommended Brands
No available recommended brands at this time.
Dosage
As directed on the product label. Some clinical and consumer sources describe a wide range of herbal amounts, and many are not supported by strong evidence. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Amounts used in studies vary widely depending on the formulation and purpose. These study amounts are not clinical recommendations and may not apply to consumer products.
According to public domain references commonly reported amounts include:
Back Pain or Joint Discomfort, Osteoarthritis: 120-240 mg salicin extract daily
Average daily intake corresponding to 60–120 mg total salicin
Willow Bark Capsules: 1-3 grams daily
For more information about herbal dosing visit Epocrates online ($)
Note: Turmeric is approved by the German Commission E approved for fever, rheumatism, headaches
*Disclaimer: The material above is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure a condition. The uses listed above are tentative; some have or are undergoing research trials, but many are not FDA-approved. It is essential that you investigate these supplements further before deciding to use them. Check interactions and contraindications on sites like Drugs.com or WebMD. Do not attempt to treat a serious condition like liver, kidney problems, high blood pressure, heart, cancer, diabetes, or thyroid issues without discussing it with a healthcare provider first. If you are pregnant or nursing a baby, please do not use supplements without discussing it with your healthcare provider.