Willow bark is the bark from several varieties of the willow tree, particularly the
white willow (Salix alba). Willow bark is a natural remedy that's been used for centuries, primarily for its pain-relieving properties. It contains salicin, a compound that's chemically similar to aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid). Historically, it was used to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and lower fever.
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| Willow white |
Today, willow bark is sometimes used as a supplement or in herbal medicine for conditions like arthritis, back pain, and headaches. muscle pain, and arthritis. It's available in various forms, including teas, powders, and supplements.
The leaves are used internally in the treatment of minor feverish illnesses and colic. An infusion of the leaves has a calming effect and is helpful in the treatment of nervous insomnia. When added to the bath water, the infusion is of real benefit in relieving widespread rheumatism. The leaves can be harvested throughout the growing season and are used fresh or dried.
Other uses of the plant:
The young stems are very flexible and are used in basket making. The plant is usually coppiced annually when grown for basket making, though it is possible to coppice it every two years if thick poles are required as uprights. The bark can be used for tying plants. A fibre obtained from the stems is used in making paper. The stems are harvested in spring or summer, the leaves are removed and the stems steamed until the fibres can be stripped. The fibres are cooked for 2 hours with lye and then beaten with mallets or put through a blender.
The paper is red/brown in colour. A fast growing tree and tolerant of maritime exposure, it can be grown as a shelterbelt. The plant's rapid growth and wind tolerance make it a very good pioneer species to use in establishing woodland conditions in difficult sites. Spacing cuttings about every 5 metres will soon provide shelter and a suitable environment for planting out woodland trees that are not so wind tolerant.
The main disadvantage in using this species is that the roots are far-ranging and the plant is quite greedy, so it will not as much effect as species such as the alders (Alnus species) in enriching the soil and thus feeding the woodland plants. Wood elastic, soft, easy to split, does not splinter. Used for construction, turnery, poles, tool handles etc. The wood is also used to make charcoal, which has medicinal uses.
Where to buy: Availbilaity in powdered/cut shifted
JK Medicinal Plants Introduction Centre
POB 40,GPO Srinagar, Kashmir, JK 190001
WhatsApp/Telegram : 9858986794
Ph: 01933-223705
e-mail: jkmpic@gmail.com
WhatsApp/Telegram : 9858986794
Ph: 01933-223705
e-mail: jkmpic@gmail.com
