White willow is a tree that grows natively in Europe, Asia, and North Africa. The bark is removed from the tree during the spring in trees that are 2-5 years of age.  The white willow is a very famous tree. It is the source of the most famous commercial drug ever made - aspirin.

Possibly Effective for:

Treating low back pain. Willow bark seems to reduce lower back pain. Higher doses seem to be more effective than lower doses. It can take up to a week for significant improvement in symptoms.

Insufficient Evidence for:

Osteoarthritis. Research on willow bark extract for osteoarthritis has produced conflicting results. Some research suggests it can reduce osteoarthritis pain somewhat, while other research shows no effect.

Weight loss, when taken in combination with other herbs. Treating fever. Joint pain. Headaches.

Willow bark is used to ease pain and reduce inflammation. Researchers believe that the chemical salicin, found in willow bark, is responsible for these effects. However, studies show several other components of willow bark, including plant chemicals called polyphenols and flavonoids, have antioxidant, fever reducing, antiseptic, and immune boosting properties. Some studies show willow is as effective as aspirin for reducing pain and inflammation (but not fever), and at a much lower dose. Scientists think that may be due to other compounds in the herb.

The salicylic acid in white willow bark lowers the body’s levels of prostaglandins, hormonelike compounds that can cause aches, pain, and inflammation. While white willow bark takes longer to begin acting than aspirin, its effect may last longer. And, unlike aspirin, it doesn’t cause stomach bleeding or other known adverse effects.

Side Effects & Safety

Willow bark is POSSIBLY SAFE for most people when used short-term (up to 12 weeks).

It may cause stomach upset and digestive system upset. It can also cause itching, rash, and allergic reactions, particularly in people allergic to aspirin or salicylate containing drugs and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency. Consult your health care provider before beginning use of any herb.

Active Compounds: Flavonoids, Tannins, Phenolic glycosides

General dosage:

Dried herb (used to make tea): boil 1 - 2 tsp of dried bark in 8 oz of water and simmer for 10 - 15 minutes; let steep for ½ hour; drink 3 - 4 cups daily.

Powdered herb: 60 - 240 mg of standardized salicin per day; talk to your doctor before taking a higher dose.

Tincture/Liquid extract: 4 - 6 mL 3 times per day.

Botanical Name: Salix alba
aka: European willow, Basket Willow, Bay Willow, Black Willow, Black Willow Extract, Brittle Willow, Corteza de Sauce, Crack Willow, Daphne Willow, Écorce de Saule, Écorce de Saule Blanc
Origin: Organic: Croatia; Wildcrafted: China
Notes: Certified Organic by QAI. Non-GMO. Kosher Certified. Non-irradiated
Specifications are subject to change without notice.
* FDA disclaimer

References
webmd
Univ of MD Medical Center
Whole Health Chicago Center for Integrative Medicine
about.com