Willow is most famous for its pain-relieving qualities, and studies have found it could be as effective as aspirin, and at a much lower dose, and without gastrointestinal side effects.
Willow bark contains the pain and inflammation reducing chemical, salicin. It has therefore been used traditionally for headaches, low back pain, osteoarthritis, tendonitis, bursitis and other pain conditions.
Willow also contains other supportive plant chemicals such as polyphenols and flavonoids, making it useful traditionally for fevers and immune boosting, as well as for menstrual cramps, flus, and cancer protection.
The bark is used, and dried, and then can be ground.
This is another amazing and beautiful tree that is also a very valuable herb. Willow likes damp conditions so may be found, mostly, gracing riverbanks.
It’s not meant to be complicated to be well. Nor is it meant to be expensive.
Learn more at www.theherbalists.co.nz