White Willow (Salix alba)
Biology:
The white willow is a deciduous tree growing up to 30m tall and native and native from Western Europe east into central Asia. It is called white willow due to the white underside of the leaves.
Cultural history:
The bark of the white willow is one of the classic painkillers. It was first mentioned by Hippocrates, the “father of modern medicine,” in the 5th century BC as a “bitter powder extract from the bark” that would ease pain and reduce fever. In the 12th century Hildegard von Bingen, one of the most famous scholars of the Middle Ages, recommended white willow bark extract against rheumatism, gout and fever.
Active ingredients:
The active ingredient of white willow bark is Salicin. Salicin was first isolated in the early 19th century and later served as the base for the discovery of salicylic acid, the ingredient of Aspirin.
Effects & side effects:
White willow bark extract is a strong painkiller and antipyretic. Just like its cousin salicylic acid, white willow bark extract should not be taken by people who suffer from asthma, ulcer or stomach bleeding, kidney or liver conditions. It is also not recommended for use during pregnancy.