Many well-known drugs come from studying natural plant compounds like salicin, the active constituent found in White Willow Bark . This herb has been used for centuries to ease discomfort associated with the joints and muscles. Many people rely on Willow Bark as a natural alternative when the pressures of the day start to take their toll.
Disclaimer:
The information presented herein by Viable Herbal Solutions is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.
History and Uses:
White Willow Bark comes from the White Willow tree, which is indigenous to Europe. The genus
name, Salix, is believed to be derived from the Celtic words, sal lis, meaning "near water," and it is said that years ago, when a Reverend Edward Store noticed that Willow grew in marshy
areas where rheumatism was so common, he decided to make a tea for sufferers
that was helpful. An ancient custom is to make a wish while tying
a knot in a Willow branch - untie the knot when the wish is received - and Willow is also an excellent material for making baskets and dowsing rods. The
bark of the common Willow tree has been known since antiquity for its pain-relieving
and fever-reducing properties.
In the early nineteenth century, a French chemist
extracted the principal active ingredient from Willow Bark and named it salicin.
At the end of the century, Felix Hofmann, a chemist at the Bayer company in
Germany, developed the world's most-used medication: aspirin, or acetyl-salicylic
acid. Willow, along with the herb Meadowsweet,
is well known as the original source of salicylic acid (the precursor
to original aspirin). Recently, pain sufferers have been returning to the natural
sources of salicin to avoid the potentially dangerous side effects of synthetic
aspirin. The primary chemical constituents of White Willow Bark include glycosides (salicin, salicoside), salicortine, tannin, catechin and flavonoids.
Female Willow buds are thought to contain phytoestrogens. Salicylic acid is a weak anti-inflammatory
agent but is converted by the liver to acetyl-salicylic acid. The acetylated
version has aspirin's more effective anti-inflammatory activity without its
gastrointestinal toxicity. The salicylates inhibit the activity of the cyclo-oxgenase
enzymes, and thus inhibit the production of prostaglandins and other inflammatory
molecules. The excretion of salicylic acid in the urine helps soothe an irritated
urinary tract. Willow Bark has long been used for fevers and inflammations.
In addition, the astringency of the glycosides makes Willow Bark useful as
an antiseptic and astringent. Extracts and infusions of the bark have been
used for cleansing the scalp and skin, for treating dandruff and for treating
corns and growths. All species of Willow are thought to be mildly antiseptic. Known topical applications of White
Willow Bark include its use as a mouthwash for sore gums, a gargle for tonsillitis,
a hair rinse for dandruff, a compress and poultice for burns, insect bites and
wounds and, finally, a foot soak for sweaty feet.
Recommended Dosage:
Take two (2) capsules, one (1) to two (2) times each day with water at mealtimes.
Contraindications:
Those who are allergic to aspirin should not use White Willow Bark, and the herb should not be taken in combination with aspirin. It is not recommended for pregnant and nursing women without first consulting a health care provider. Children under the age of sixteen years of age with symptoms of flu, chicken pox or other types of viral infection should not use White Willow Bark, because, like aspirin, there may be a risk of developing Reye's syndrome. Chronic use may result in diminished sexual interest.
Capsule Information:
Our White Willow Bark supplements are encapsulated in 100% Gluten-free, Vegetable Cellulose, Certified Kosher, size "00" Capsules. (click here for size comparison) Each capsule contains approximately 600 mgs. |
