Herb Profile: White Willow Bark Nature’s Aspirin

White Willow Bark, otherwise known as “nature's aspirin”, has been used for over 5,000 years. Historically, ancient Egyptians and native Americans used the bark for its analgesic, antipyretic (fever reducing), and anti-inflammatory properties. What makes this herb so intriguing is its similarities to the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), aspirin.

Today, doctors typically recommended NSAIDs like aspirin to relieve pain, fever, and inflammation. Doctors even suggest adults over the age of 50 to take a low dose of aspirin daily to prevent cardiovascular disease. However, according to the New England Journal of Medicine, deaths from gastrointestinal problems from NSAIDs in 1999 alone accounted for the “15th most common cause of death in the United States.” Sadly, NSAID consumption has dramatically increased since then, leading to persistent long-term use and abuse in some consumers [1].

Due to NSAID’s life-altering, and at times life-threatening side effects, researchers are exploring alternative treatments through the use of herbs and natural supplements [2].

Properties and benefits of White Willow Bark

White willow trees are native throughout Europe and Central Asia. The bark of the white willow tree contains powerful flavonoids, tannins, and salicin glycosides –– an anti-inflammatory agent. When salicin glycosides are consumed, they metabolize through the digestive system and filter through the liver thus becoming salicylic acid –– the active ingredient in aspirin [3].

Scientifically, white willow bark has been well researched in various placebo-controlled randomized studies. These studies have shown white willow bark to be highly effective in treating back and joint pain, osteoarthritis, tendonitis, etc. [3].

White willow bark also helps with:

  • Pain relief
  • Inflammation
  • Fever
  • GI disorders
  • Skin disorders
  • Migraines
  • Weight loss
  • Menstrual cramps
  • Oral care [4]

Ways to consume White Willow Bark:

  • Capsules
  • Tablets
  • Mouth gargle
  • Topicals
  • Herbal teas

At HealthNaturally we formulate our products with the purest sourced ingredients. That’s why two of our Hemp Oil re-leaf salves, 500mg CBD and 100mg CBD, contain pure grade white willow bark. We believe that all phytochemicals work synergistically to relieve the body more naturally than conventional drugs like NSAIDs. We also understand that too much of a good thing can actually produce negative results. That’s why we meticulously formulate our products with safe doses for all of our consumers. Higher doses of white willow bark can have adverse effects on the stomach. If you are sensitive to aspirin, pregnant, or have tinnitus,  consult your doctor before orally consuming white willow bark. In more extreme and rare cases, the active ingredient in aspirin and white willow bark may cause Reye’s syndrome. Please take caution before use [2].