Willow bark, the medicinal properties and contraindications of which have always been known, is actively recommended by traditional medicine. White willow, also known as pussy willow, is a perennial tree in the Willow family. Its bark has a characteristic grayish tint, and its crown has a spreading hemispherical shape.

When is willow bark collected?

Most often, it is the bark that is used for medicinal purposes, and a little less often the leaves. Early spring is suitable for harvesting bark. Infusions and decoctions are prepared from it for therapeutic and prophylactic effects on various diseases.

Willow bark has many medicinal properties and contraindications, so before using this product, you should make sure that it is harmless to the body. Raw materials for the treatment of certain diseases are collected from trees that have already reached the age of 6 years.

Harvesting willow bark has some nuances that many people do not know about. You shouldn't collect medicinal raw materials from all the trees you find. This process negatively affects the growth of willow, so it is advisable to make preparations in moderation. This will preserve the population of trees in a particular area, and therefore you will always have the opportunity to collect a new batch of the remedy.

Properties and composition of willow bark

Willow bark has very pronounced medicinal properties and contraindications, which is due to the chemical composition of this tree. The bark is rich in a substance called salicin glycoside. This is a natural component unique in its properties, which was discovered by the German scientist Buchner at the beginning of the 19th century.

A little later, Italian professors managed to isolate the well-known salicylic acid from the substance “sálix”. It was on its basis that a medicine that was already familiar to everyone - aspirin - appeared in official medicine. However, at the moment, salicylic acid is obtained artificially, since extracting it from the bark of the willow (white willow) is a very expensive process.

It is the presence of this substance in the bark that explains the beneficial effects of willow. So, when taking salicin in the form of tinctures or decoctions, the human body begins to produce salicylic acid. Its effect is less harmful than the effect of synthetic aspirin. Studies show that its long-term use negatively affects the functioning of the digestive system.

Beneficial properties of willow bark

Natural salicin is used as:

1. Painkiller.
2. Hemostatic.
3. Diuretic.
4. Antipyretic.
5. Anthelmintic.
6. Anti-inflammatory agent.

• diseases of the bladder, intestines;
• headaches;
• stomach diseases;
• internal bleeding;
• menopause

Methods of using willow (willow)

To prepare a medicinal decoction, the following recipe is recommended:

1. One tablespoon of willow bark should be poured with boiling water. For this, it is advisable to use enamel dishes.
2. Next, the water with the raw materials must be boiled for another half hour, using the “water bath” method.
3. The broth should be strained while still hot.
4. Next, you need to pour more boiled water into it (the original volume).
5. The product is taken several times a day, one tablespoon half an hour before meals.

With the help of salicin, inflammation of the joints is also actively treated. Due to its anti-inflammatory effect, willow bark is used in the treatment of rheumatism, osteoarthritis, and gout. Willow is used in folk medicine for diseases such as arrhythmia, diarrhea, jaundice, and oral problems.

Like most medicines, it is highly not recommended to use a decoction of willow bark for women carrying a fetus, as well as for children under 16 years of age. Individual intolerance to this drug may also be a contraindication to use. Before using for medicinal purposes, you should consult your doctor.

Video about the healing properties of willow bark

For several centuries, willow has been considered a valuable plant with amazing healing properties. In fact, various parts of this tree are used for many diseases. In particular, willow bark, the medicinal properties, uses and contraindications of which we will now consider, has found multiple uses in folk medicine.

Willow bark - beneficial properties and composition

Of particular value in the composition of willow bark are tannins, which occupy more than 10% of the total amount. Salicin, or salicylic acid glycoside, is one of the organic components beneficial for human health. It effectively eliminates headaches and migraines. In addition, recipes from this plant contain many flavonoids, pectins, glycosides and even ascorbic acid. The use of such products, prepared without much difficulty at home, helps saturate the body with vitamins, minerals and biologically active compounds.

Willow bark has a diuretic, anthelmintic and anti-inflammatory effect. It helps lower body temperature, eliminates fever, and alleviates colds.

Products prepared from the bark of this tree help improve musculoskeletal function, accelerate the healing process of wounds, and effectively act as a sleeping pill and sedative. After consuming decoctions, you can get rid of insomnia.

Treatment of diseases of the digestive system will also be very successful with proper preparation and use of remedies from a useful plant.

The properties of willow are also valued in cosmetology. It is successfully used not only internally, but also as a hair rinse, skin lotion, nail bath, etc.

Willow bark - application, methods of use

There are many recipes that are considered useful for a particular disease. Let's consider the most valuable of them; perhaps they will turn out to be useful in your treasury of folk remedies.

Cure for radiculitis: you need to take a teaspoon of crushed young tree bark and pour a glass of boiling water over it. Cover the container with the infusion with a lid and leave until it cools completely. After straining, the medicine can be taken - one tablespoon 5-6 times during the day. This remedy also helps stabilize blood pressure and raise it to normal. It is not recommended to use if you have hypertension.

Remedy for jaundice: you will need to take 60 grams of well-dried bark. Fill it with one liter of cold water, put it on low heat and cook after boiling for 15-20 minutes. Then remove from the stove, wrap well and leave for 24 hours. After a day, strain the resulting mixture, drink half a glass three times a day before meals. This remedy is used only in combination with drug therapy as an adjunct.

Remedy for tonsillitis: you can make a decoction for gargling. Pour one tablespoon of bark into 250 ml of water, boil for 35 minutes, leave for 4-5 hours. Strain well and use to rinse several times during the day after meals and between meals.

Cure for dysentery. This folk remedy is prepared from the following components:

10 grams of willow bark;
- 8 grams of strawberry roots;
- 500 ml of water.

Grind all the ingredients, mix, add water and place on low heat for 10-12 minutes. Strain the finished broth, and then you can take two or three teaspoons throughout the day. This remedy should not be used for more than two days.

For external use, use the following decoction: 250 grams of dry raw materials are boiled in 10 liters of water for fifteen minutes. Pour the resulting composition into a bath, the water temperature in which should not exceed 37 degrees. Such procedures should be taken for at least half an hour, adding hot water if necessary. In just a few sessions, you can reduce the manifestations of thrombophlebitis.

When using recipes from parts of this tree, you can relieve the symptoms of diabetes. But it is worth dispelling some beliefs: it will not be possible to cure the disease, but only to minimize its manifestations.

Willow bark - contraindications and warnings

In folk medicine, absolutely all remedies have a number of contraindications; they must be used with extreme caution when self-treating. Willow is not recommended for children under sixteen years of age. The same goes for pregnant women and breastfeeding babies.

You cannot combine taking medications containing salicylic acid with the use of willow. It is not used for stomach ulcers, gastritis and high acidity.

Taking into account the diuretic effect, you should promptly replenish salts and minerals in the body after consuming willow infusions.

When to prepare raw materials for decoctions?

To get the maximum benefit from the plant, it must be collected during the period of sap flow, which is the time from March to April. The bark is easily separated from the trunk and has maximum beneficial properties. It is dried under the sun and then placed in the oven at a low temperature of 50-60 degrees. The finished raw material must be fragile and easy to break. You can store it in a paper or cardboard box. By following all the rules, you can store a valuable dried plant for 3-4 years.

Willow bark, the medicinal properties of which have been known since ancient times, is actively used today in the form of folk treatment. True, it is important to remember that there are specific contraindications and restrictions. In many situations, it is acceptable to use white willow bark for medicinal purposes (people also call it willow or silver willow).

Of all the plants of the willow family, it stands out for its tallest growth and straight, elongated branches that hang beautifully above the ground. You can prepare it yourself, and sometimes it is advisable to buy a ready-made medicinal product.

Initially, the bark of this tree was valued for the presence of tanning components in large quantities. Their share is more than 10%. Furrier production has not been able to do without an extract of this raw material for a long time. There are a lot of organic substances that are useful to people.

The first one worth noting is the glycoside of salicylic acid, or more simply salicin. With its help you can fight headache attacks and migraines. Salicylic acid is a great way to relieve fever. Willow bark also contains pectins, vitamin C, flavonoids, and glycosides; they will have a general strengthening effect and saturate the body with useful substances.

Useful properties

The medicinal properties of willow bark outweigh the contraindications.

Of these, it is important to highlight the following:

Willow bark, the medicinal properties and contraindications of which may differ depending on the form and auxiliary components, acts differently in different medicines.

Indications

The dried bark is added to various forms of medicines (external and internal).

Compositions for external treatment are effective for:

• the appearance of bedsores;
• diaper rash due to sweating;
• suppuration and abscesses;
• ulcers and other skin problems.

Indications for oral administration:

Benefits for men

The strong half of humanity can use such remedies with great success in the fight against prostatitis. The components responsible for fighting inflammatory processes come into play, antiseptic properties, as well as astringent ability are activated.

A special decoction is brewed based on willow bark. Add 5 tbsp to 200 ml of boiling water. l. bark. The mass is cooked for about 5 minutes. The resulting mass is filtered. The decoction is taken 0.5 tbsp. per day.

Benefits for women

Raw materials also show great effectiveness in the treatment of many gynecological diseases. Especially those that are accompanied by heavy internal and external bleeding.

During heavy menstruation, a decoction will also help. It is added during douching and sitz baths. They help improve the condition of the genital organs, relieve itching and other unpleasant symptoms. The decoction is made at a comfortable temperature for the body.

In addition to the main medicinal properties, the raw materials can be successfully used in the independent preparation of homemade cosmetics. It will help to forget about dandruff if 2 r. Rinse clean hair with willow decoction every week. Women who cannot get rid of acne will appreciate the effects of the decoction. You can rinse not only your face, but your entire body.

Hair composition

First, a mixture of burdock roots and silver willow bark is prepared. The components are crushed and diluted in 0.5 liters of water while boiling. Keep on low heat or simmer in a water bath for about 1/3 hour. The fire is turned off, everything is left under the lid for 120 minutes. The resulting decoction is filtered and applied weekly for 2 r.

Decoction for skin

The preparation process for rinsing the skin is easier to implement. Add 1 tbsp to 250 ml of boiling water. l. dried raw materials.

Willow bark during pregnancy and lactation

Willow bark, which has numerous medicinal properties and contraindications, can bring more than just benefits. You need to be especially careful throughout the entire period of bearing a child and even when breastfeeding.

Taking medications and formulations containing these raw materials is permissible exclusively for cosmetic procedures or one-time treatments.

In any situation, the advice of a supervising gynecologist is required, since the components of willow bark may be too strong and cause serious harm to the baby and mother.

Use of willow bark for children

Children should not be treated with such drugs before they reach 16 years of age. Sometimes it is permissible to use tinctures and decoctions one-time as a means for external use, for example, for gargling, hair, and treating wounds.

The use of such drugs internally is strictly prohibited.

Willow bark for headaches

Decoctions of willow bark help eliminate headaches. It costs 1 tbsp to drink. l. 3-4 times a day. Gradually the pain will subside and bother you less often.

For gout

A decoction brewed in the traditional way can speed up the healing process during gout treatment. It is taken 1 tbsp. l. 4-5 times before meals (approximately 30 minutes). The course should last a month.

This method of therapy has its limitations and contraindications:

• bradycardia;
• constipation or predisposition to it;
• intolerance;
• taking medications that reduce fever.

For chronic fatigue

Thanks to its special composition, willow bark not only copes with many problems, but also helps improve the condition of the entire body as a whole. If you regularly drink tea brewed from this raw material, a person will gradually forget about the state of chronic fatigue and will feel cheerful and full of energy.

For laryngitis

To treat laryngitis, it is advisable to make an infusion of white willow bark (1 tbsp per glass of boiling water). The product is infused for 50-60 minutes and taken internally. You will need to drink a glass in 3-4 doses over the course of one day, half an hour before meals.

For diarrhea

Willow bark will speed up treatment for diarrhea. With this disease, the decoction will stop the disease itself, but will also help normalize the water content and restore the intestinal microflora.

For diarrhea, you can also take another remedy prepared from willow bark (10 g) and strawberry roots (8 g). Everything is crushed and filled with 0.5 liters of water, then simmered for 10-12 minutes. The resulting composition is filtered and taken 2 tsp. periodically throughout the day. The course of treatment should not be carried out for more than two days.

With heavy menstruation

Gynecological diseases, especially those accompanied by bleeding, can also be treated with willow bark. Drink 1 tbsp infusion. l. a day 3 times. If there is heavy menstruation or uterine bleeding, then the number of doses increases to 5-6 times. Drink the drug prepared in this way only after eating (after 30 minutes).

For dermatological diseases

A decoction prepared from willow bark can be used as a basis for the treatment of many skin problems: simply damaged skin, areas affected by fungus, wounds that do not heal for a long time. Treatment consists of regularly taking baths with the addition of a composition based on willow bark; you can also wash the body area 2-3 times throughout the day.

For fungal diseases, baths, for example, for feet, will help. 200 ml of crushed bark is brewed with boiling water and left for half an hour. Then the broth is added to a container with hot (so as not to burn the skin) water. The affected limb is placed in it and they wait until the water becomes just warm. You can enhance the effect if you brew not only willow bark, but also oak bark (1 tbsp of each raw material).

For boils and warts

For abscesses and long-term non-healing purulent wounds, a decoction based on willow bark can also help, as it has an anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effect. You can prepare a special creamy composition based on bark powder. It is mixed with any fat base in a ratio of 1:5 and distributed on the abscess.

To remove warts, another composition is prepared. You will need willow bark ash, which is mixed with table vinegar until a homogeneous paste is obtained. Then it is applied to the formation and wrapped. Treatment continues until the warts fall off.

For diabetes

Naturally, it will not be possible to cure diabetes mellitus with this remedy, but it is possible to alleviate many of the symptoms and conditions associated with the disease. A decoction will help when taken 3 times a day. per day. To relieve swelling and fatigue, you can cook with a decoction bath. The procedure should last at least 20 minutes.

Application in cosmetology

Willow bark, whose medicinal properties and contraindications are taken into account even in modern medicine, has also found application in the production of medicinal cosmetics. Using a decoction with the addition of any preparation based on burdock roots will permanently cure dandruff, seborrhea and relieve itching of the scalp. You just need to rinse your wet, clean hair with this mixture.

Baths where a similar decoction is added will help cope with many skin diseases.

Willow bark for weight loss

Preparations based on silver willow bark extracts will not cause fat loss instantly, but will help speed up this procedure. Due to the fact that the substances in the composition differ in properties that normalize metabolic processes, and are also responsible for restoring the body’s strength, the process of losing weight will go much faster.

Silver willow bark decoction

Widely used as a treatment for skin lesions, rinsing hair, and also for oral administration. The cooking recipes are slightly different for each option.

Decoction for skin treatment and hair rinsing

Add 40-60 g of bark to 0.5 liters of boiling water and cook for about 15 minutes. over low heat, then leave covered for the same amount of time.

It is worth straining and can be used to treat damaged areas or add when taking a bath.

Oral preparation

For 1 tbsp. boiling water is added 1 tsp. prepared raw materials and cook for 5-10 minutes. Leave to infuse and then strain.

White willow bark extract

The extract from the bark collected by using propylene glycol extraction is called an extract. It is added in the production of medications of various release forms, creams and other formulations.

Willow bark tincture

This version of the product can be prepared in different ways. The most common option is an infusion, which many simply call tea. This drink is an excellent anti-inflammatory agent that can cope with viral and bacterial infections, especially during periods of exacerbations and epidemics.

To prepare 1 tsp. the raw materials are steamed with 0.5 liters of boiling water and left to brew for 5-6 hours (preferably in a thermos). This tea is drunk 0.5 tbsp. 3-4 r. per day.

Vodka tincture

People suffering from poor appetite can use vodka tincture to increase it. To prepare it, 25 g of bark is poured into 0.5 liters of vodka and left for 10 days. The tincture should be shaken every day.
After the specified time, strain the tincture and drink 30-40 drops before meals.

Willow bark powder

It is prepared from dried raw materials by grinding it in a coffee grinder. The powder is taken for all types of diseases and pathologies when preparations based on raw materials are recommended. For one dose, take 1 g of prepared powder. It is convenient to use to stop any external bleeding. If the nasal cavity is open, the powder is sucked into the nostrils.

Preparations based on willow bark

Willow bark, whose medicinal properties and contraindications are appreciated both in folk and traditional medicine, is included in the production of many pharmaceuticals in the form of an active or auxiliary component.

Not only the bark itself is sold in cardboard boxes, but also a wide range of medicines for various purposes:

Contraindications

Like any medicine or folk remedy, willow bark has a number of restrictions and contraindications:

You cannot use such products if you have started taking medications with ginkgo biloba extracts, garlic itself, or a course of vitamin E.

The pre- and postoperative period (14 days) is also a limitation for the use of such medications.

Possible harm and side effects

Willow bark, the medicinal properties and contraindications of which are important to consider when taking, can cause complications and, if taken incorrectly, even cause harm to humans. The most frequently occurring symptoms include headache, noise and ringing in the ears, stomach cramps, vomiting and nausea.

The use of willow bark for children under 16 years of age as therapy and treatment threatens the development of Reine's syndrome, and this, in turn, sometimes ends in death.

If taken for a long time and incorrectly, there is a possibility of:

• development of stomach ulcers;
• opening of bleeding in the stomach;
• allergic reaction in the form of a rash;
• kidney failure;
• damage from liver toxins;
• states of weakness and dizziness.

Collection and storage

Willow bark must be properly prepared in order to be used as medicine. The collection of medicinal raw materials is carried out in early spring, before the sap begins to flow, but before flowering begins. Only material from young branches is suitable.

After harvesting, the bark is cut into sticks and dried in direct sunlight. To dry it to the desired state, use ovens with a temperature setting of no more than 45-55 C°.

The bark will be ready if, when bent, it breaks easily rather than bending.

It is equally important to ensure proper storage. The period of use after harvesting is 4 years. It is strictly forbidden to choose polyethylene when organizing storage; only boxes made of cardboard are suitable.

Despite the large list of medicinal properties of willow bark, you need to remember that there are certain contraindications. Therefore, it is important to consult a professional when treating any ailment using a folk recipe or medicine based on raw materials. Only the attending physician can really assess the relevance of use for a specific problem and condition of the patient.

Article format: Lozinsky Oleg

Video about willow bark

Benefits and properties of willow bark:

Syn.: white willow, silver willow, willow, white willow, white willow.

The plant has a shrubby or tree-like form, and in favorable conditions can live up to the century mark. White willow is widely used in various fields of human activity: medicine, decorative arts (wicker weaving), construction, landscape design, beekeeping.

Ask the experts a question

Flower formula

In medicine

The bark, young shoots and leaves of silver willow are successfully used for the treatment and prevention of common ailments: rheumatism, gout, diarrhea, bleeding (gastric and uterine), eczema, etc. The bark has antiseptic properties.

More than a hundred years ago, salicylic acid was obtained from willow bark - a powerful non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug known as “aspirin” or “acetylsalicylic acid”, which has analgesic (painkiller), antipyretic, anti-inflammatory and antiplatelet effects.

Contraindications and side effects

Preparations from white willow are contraindicated in children under 16 years of age and pregnant women, since the salicin in the plant can cause Reine's syndrome (encephalitis and liver failure), which is fatal to the child's life. For the same reason, children are prohibited from using aspirin to treat acute respiratory infections and viral infections.

In cosmetology

Willow bark has been successfully used in cosmetics. A decoction of a mixture of burdock roots and white willow bark will help get rid of dandruff, hair loss, and itchy skin. Salicylic acid in the bark helps improve metabolic processes in the cells of the epidermis of the head, regulates the secretion of subcutaneous fat, promotes active hair growth and strengthens its roots. In addition, shampoos, rinses and balms based on willow extract actively fight dandruff, seborrhea, and excessive oily scalp.

Therapeutic baths using decoctions of willow bark and leaves are used for purulent rashes, dermatitis, and allergic conditions. Salicylic acid has an anti-inflammatory and wound-healing effect on damaged skin.

In gardening

Willow is widely used in landscape design. The variety of its species allows you to choose a plant based on the shape of the crown, size, decorativeness of the leaves and other features of a particular species. Thanks to the elasticity, flexibility of the branches and rapid growth of willow, it is possible to form interesting compositions for aesthetic purposes and for landscaping personal plots, parks, and public gardens. Cut vines are the basis for large, whimsical green sculptures as landscape art.

Willow trees are also planted to strengthen slopes and sandy soils, thanks to their powerful root system. The plant has unique properties - it cleanses the soil of oil pollution. Special chemical processes occur in wood. Given this ability, Canadians plant willow trees in oil fields. Laboratory analysis of such plants shows only a small amount of harmful impurities in the leaves, and the wood itself turns out to be environmentally friendly.

Willows are often planted in large cities because they have good survival rate on various soils and are gas and smoke resistant. The unique ability of willow to purify the air from carbon dioxide allows it to be widely used in landscaping populated areas.

In everyday life

In the economy, folk crafts

Willow wood is widely used in agriculture due to its qualities: it is tough, light, elastic and soft. Tennis rackets, prosthetics, arches, hoops, various equipment, and kitchen utensils are made from willow. After soaking, the wood of this tree becomes flexible. This property makes it possible to use the material in weaving furniture, baskets, fences, vases and other handicrafts useful to humans. Willow vine is also good for making fishing tops. Willow is an excellent honey plant. Young willow shoots are fed to livestock.

Tanning of leather occurs with the help of active substances from willow bark - tannins, the percentage of which is almost 15%. Back in the 19th century, up to 300 thousand tons of tree bark were used to obtain a particularly valuable type of leather - yuft. Tannins prevent farmers from using willow leaves as compost because these substances inhibit plant growth.

Bast is an excellent material for making fiber from which ropes are woven. You can obtain brown and black colors and their shades for dyeing silk, leather, and wool using willow bark dyes.

In Ukraine and Belarus, specially grown willow is used as fuel. Tree plantings are renewed annually due to the rapid growth of plants. Switzerland is proud of the plant, whose thermal energy comes from the combustion of willow briquettes. For this purpose, willow twig is grown on plantations. It is cut every two years, then after grinding the raw material is formed into small briquettes for heating the plant.

In construction and furniture industry

Willow wood is not inferior to linden and poplar, therefore it is successfully used in the woodworking industry. The trunks of large trees are sawn into boards for the construction of residential buildings, for example, in the southern regions of Russia. Boards are used in apiaries to make beehives, some types of furniture, and various household utensils. Matches are made from willow wood.

Today there is an increased demand for willow wood. It is used to make furniture panels, which are subsequently veneered with synthetic materials or valuable wood.

Classification

White willow or silver willow, willow or white willow, belotal (Salix alba) is a type of deciduous tree or shrub form. Belongs to the genus Willow (Salix) of the Salicaceae family of the order Malpighiales.

The genus Willow contains about 370 species, so the genus is considered the most numerous among other genera of flora. In Russia there are white willow, ash willow, goat willow, three-stamen willow, and basket willow. Recently, breeders have developed many varieties (cultivated forms) of the plant. Popular decorative forms of willow: a weeping variety of white willow - Varvittelina, a pyramidal form of a plant with ascending shoots - Vitellina piramidalis, a variety of willow with a bluish crown and brown shoots - Splendens, a wide pyramidal form - Kosterii.

Botanical description

White willow is a tree, usually 5-8 meters in height with a characteristic spreading crown, drooping, thin branches that often touch the ground. The bark of young specimens is light gray in color, while older specimens have a dark gray, almost black tint. As the bark grows with age, cracks form. The branches of silver willow are thin, yellowish, and quite flexible. Young shoots are distinguished by their hue: olive-green or reddish-brown, the ends of the shoots are silvery. Over time, the shoots age, become leafless, flexible and shiny, and acquire a brownish tone. In cultivation, willow is distinguished by its longevity; some specimens live up to 100 years. Willows are moisture-loving and prefer well-lit areas for their growth.

The root system of the plant is well developed, but the main root is missing. The lateral roots of willow, which grows in arid regions, are often located to a depth of 3 meters in search of moisture. On well-moistened, fertile soils, the rhizome is less developed.

White willow buds are pointed, reddish, with one bud scale. In Russia and Ukraine, the blossoming buds are called “seals” because of their fluffiness and silvery hue. The buds begin to actively develop in March-April. Lanceolate leaves on the shoots are placed alternately and have stipules. Their edges are smooth or dusty. The apex of the leaf blade is pointed and reaches a length of 5-16 cm. Young leaves are whitish, covered with silvery hair. As the foliage matures, it acquires a dark green hue on top, and the leaves below are bluish and pubescent. In autumn, with the onset of cold weather, the leaves turn yellow, but remain on the shoots for a long time, until the first frost.

The flowers are dioecious, unisexual, collected in hanging inflorescences - catkins. Men's earrings are cylindrical, long, women's earrings are thicker and shorter. The perianth of willow is reduced, in its place 1-3 small nectaries are developed. Earrings fall off in males immediately after flowering, in females - after the dispersal of small seeds. The fruit of the silver willow is a slightly pubescent bivalve capsule. Seeds, falling into a moist substrate, grow quickly. Wild seedlings grow up to 60 cm in just one year of life. The plant reproduces by seeds and vegetatively (cuttings). The formula of the white willow flower is *О0Т2-∞П0, *ОоТ0П(2).

Regardless of environmental and geographical factors, willow retains its characteristic botanical characteristics, which is unacceptable for trees of other genera. For example, willows growing in North America are practically no different from those specimens that develop on European territory.

Spreading

Europe is considered the birthplace of white willow. Its distribution area is quite extensive: European territory (with the exception of the regions of the Far North), Iran, Asia Minor and Central Asia, North America. The plant is mainly cultivated, but wild specimens are often found along the banks of ditches, rivers, ponds, and small reservoirs. Willows grow near roads, homes, squares and parks. Prefers moist soil and is found on forest edges.

Regions of distribution on the map of Russia.

Procurement of raw materials

The part of white willow used is the bark. It is harvested in early spring during sap flow (March-April), when the bark is easily separated from the wood. 6-7 year old trees are suitable for harvesting bark. The bark for drying is selected based on color and tactile sensations. Smooth, longitudinally indented, brown or grayish-green bark is suitable for drying. The bast part should have a light straw or light brown tint, it should be smooth to the touch, without wood residues.

The drying process begins with drying in the sun, then the raw materials are dried in ovens at a temperature of 60 °C. High-quality dried bark should not break or bend. This willow material retains its healing properties for 4 years, and it is better to save the bark in cardboard packages.

Chemical composition

White willow bark contains approximately 15% tannins, tannins, the active component salicin, organic acids, ascorbic acid, and flavonoids.

Pharmacological properties

The bark, catkins and leaves of willow contain salicylic acid, organic acids, tannins and flavonoids. Thanks to the active components, in particular salicin, pharmacological preparations have an astringent, antiseptic, hemostatic, antirheumatic, and diuretic effect on the human body. Preparations from white willow are effective in the treatment of chronic diarrhea, catarrh of the stomach and ailments of the spleen, and have an analgesic and choleretic effect.

Preparations made from willow bark are especially effective for the treatment of complicated skin diseases, and are also good for eliminating sweating of the feet. The results of experimental pharmacological studies showed a pronounced antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic activity of extracts and tinctures from willow bark.

During the period of popularity of the production of acetylsalicylic acid, willow bark and its medicinal properties lost their importance. Preparations from this plant were used for the treatment of rheumatism and, since willow has an analgesic effect. Do not forget that willow-based products enhance blood clotting.

Taking white willow bark is indicated for colitis, fever, dysentery, tuberculosis, internal bleeding, rheumatism, typhoid, sore throat, bronchitis, gout, and gynecological diseases. Willow bark is taken externally in the form of decoctions for rinsing the mouth, for varicose veins.

Use in folk medicine

Decoctions and infusions of willow bark, leaves and catkins are used for stomach diseases, colitis, viral infections, bronchitis, rheumatic pain and gout. The astringent effect of the active substances of the bark helps to cure prolonged diarrhea. Also, decoctions are especially effective for hypotension or low blood pressure.

Neuroses, gastritis, neuralgia, inflammation of the urinary system and intestines are also treated using healing infusions from tree bark. Symptoms of prostatitis disappear when treated with willow preparations.

People suffering from extrasystole and tachycardia will feel relief after taking a decoction of willow bark. The same remedy is effective for gargling for colds, sore throat, stomatitis, periodontal disease, and gingivitis.

Willow is a good remedy in the fight against hair loss and dandruff. Rinsing with a decoction based on plant leaves and burdock root makes hair beautiful and well-groomed.

An ointment made from dried willow bark powder is used externally to treat poorly healing wounds and boils. Willow baths help with varicose veins and hemorrhoids.

Historical background

The beneficial properties of willow or willow (Ukrainian name) have been revered by the ancient Slavs since pagan times. Our ancestors glorified and worshiped the god Perun, and the “Perun vine” or willow always accompanied spring rites. Palm week before Easter is a Christian holiday, the symbols of which have long been willow branches - “willow seals”, which were illuminated in the church.

It’s not for nothing that Ukrainians call willow the “sorrow tree.” It heals not only the human body, but also the soul. Special spells in combination with preparations from willow bark or leaves helped many sufferers.

Willow is a sacred tree, noted in the Bible. Even in ancient times, they knew about the healing properties of this plant. About 2,400 years ago, the ancient Greeks used willow as an analgesic and antipyretic.

Literature

1. Gubanov, I. A. White willow or Willow // Illustrated guide to plants of Central Russia. In 3 volumes - M.: Scientific T. ed. KMK, Institute of Technological Research, 2003. - T. 2. - P. 13.

White willow (Salix aiba) is a valuable tree with strong medicinal properties. Its bark is used to make a single medicine that costs a penny. But, like any plant, white willow bark has contraindications. Let's find out what applications it has found and people's reviews.

Medicinal properties

The medicinal properties of weeping willow are due to its composition, namely a large amount of salicylic acid and vitamin C. It also contains a lot of tannins and organic acids. Salicin is considered the most valuable substance. Willow peel in folk medicine acts as an alternative to synthetic drugs. White willow bark has serious medicinal properties and contraindications. It is strictly prohibited until the age of 16. Shell extract may irritate the stomach and cause tinnitus. Any drug cannot be combined with anticoagulants and diuretics.

In alternative medicine, white willow peel is most often used as an antipyretic drug.

Through the above components, the tree has the following medicinal effects:

Willow has also found use as a mild sleeping pill, sedative and wound-healing agent. Reviews indicate effective use for cosmetic purposes. The diluted extract is an excellent remedy for reducing pores. White willow bark has medicinal properties that are beneficial for women. They are used for varicose veins, cystitis and leucorrhoea.

Contraindications

The extract and any other medicine must be used carefully, because it can cause harm.

Medicine has identified the following contraindications:

• pregnancy (especially 1st and 2nd trimester);
• lactation;
• constipation;
• stomach and duodenal ulcers;
• gastritis formed against the background of increased acidity.

Reviews do not recommend using the medicinal properties of white willow for colds, flu and ARVI. To achieve the desired goal in treatment, you need to pay attention to the diseases present. Thus, the plant extract can increase the duration of bleeding and provoke allergies caused by salicylates. Although the contraindications for white willow bark are rare, they cannot be ignored. Its medicinal properties are incomparable with alcohol and blood pressure lowering drugs. There are reviews where it is mentioned that the tree extract, when compatible with the medicine for seizures, caused a worsening of the condition.

Use in folk medicine

Traditional medicine recommends using the bark, leaves, and buds of willow. The use of goat willow is no exception. Extract, decoction, tea, powder, ointment and infusion are prepared from the beneficial bark. The pharmacy sells alcohol tincture and dried raw materials in the form of tea. Powder is also found in capsules and tablets. Shark oil cream with horse chestnut and willow bark for varicose veins is in good demand.

The medicinal properties of white willow are used to treat rheumatism, diarrhea, blood thinning, pleurisy and diabetes. They are used to treat wounds, remove warts and make healing baths. Medicine prescriptions are varied, and some have their own personal contraindications. They are intended for oral and external use. If the treatment is correct and regular, the goal will be achieved in a short time.

Extract

Willow peel extract has anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antithrombosis effects. Therefore, willow bark has been used for blood thinning for a very long time. Traditional medicine recommends this recipe: 150 gr. dry raw materials, pour a bottle of vodka and leave in the dark for a month. It is advisable to shake frequently to activate the healing properties. You need to drink 35 drops 3 times a day. for 15 days. After a month, the reception can be repeated. In this case, it is advisable to use both white and black willow husks. Reviews claim that the decoction will be no less effective in thinning the blood.

Decoction

You can prepare a stronger decoction. Its properties will act faster, but the taste will be very bitter. 1 tbsp. l. pour a cup of boiling water over the raw materials and boil for 30 minutes. Then leave for 2 hours, filter and consume according to the above scheme. In reviews, people write that the broth is slightly thick and very bitter. It caused heartburn in some people. Alternative medicine allows you to sweeten the remedy with sugar.

These decoctions treat diarrhea, tonsillitis, jaundice, radiculitis and many other diseases.

Infusion

Not a single disease can be treated with willow infusion. And there are several recipes for infusions. Thus, it is used for the treatment of cardiovascular failure, colitis, prostate, inflammation of the appendages and hemorrhoids. Willow bark is also very useful for hair. It prevents hair loss, dandruff and treats baldness.

This recipe is best suited for treating diseases of internal organs. 1 tbsp. l. Cover the fine willow shell with a cup of boiling water and leave covered for 3 hours. The infusion should be divided into 3 doses and drunk an hour before meals.

To treat hair, you need to make another remedy with burdock root. Take 1 tbsp. l. willow bark and burdock root, pour half a liter of water. Simmer in a water bath for 20 minutes. and leave for another 2 hours. You need to wash your hair with this product for no more than 2 rubles. for a week. Reviews from girls say that achieving goals with the help of this medicine is easy and quick.

Preparations from willow bark

Modern pharmacology produces enough drugs based on the common willow. These include dietary supplements, lotions, tablets, granules, capsules, aqueous-alcohol solutions, and teas. Look at photos of the products on the Internet. Their medicinal properties and contraindications for the use of products on willow bark vary somewhat, because each complex contains other herbal infusions. Reviews about dietary supplements are not very good. People write that the effect is almost unnoticeable, and the drug costs a small amount of money.

Capsules and granules for the genitourinary system and an aqueous-alcohol solution have received good reviews. Feedback indicates that in addition to eliminating the main problem, the digestive process is being improved. Colitis and constipation disappear in those treated. Tea also helps well with bronchopulmonary diseases.