White Willow Bark

Common Name:

White Willow Bark

Botanical Name:

Salix alba

Short Description:

White Willow Bark contains salicin, a precursor to aspirin, and is used for its pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, and fever-reducing properties. It is commonly used for headaches, arthritis, and musculoskeletal pain.

Parts Used:

Bark (young twigs or inner bark)

Actions:

Analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, astringent

Energetics:

Cooling, drying, bitter

Body Systems:

Musculoskeletal, nervous, immune

Spiritual/Energetic Uses:

Supports flexibility and emotional release. White willow encourages surrender to life’s natural flow while helping to release pain—physical and emotional—held in the body.

Planetary/Dosha Associations:

Planetary: Moon
Dosha: Balances Pitta and Vata

Safety Notes:

Avoid in individuals allergic to aspirin (salicylates) or with bleeding disorders. May irritate the stomach in large doses. Not for use in pregnancy or for children with viral infections (Reye’s syndrome risk).