White Willow Bark
White willow bark is a traditional herb used for occasional pain and inflammation support. It contains salicin and related compounds in the aspirin family. That makes it helpful for some people, but it also means the same caution rules apply: bleeding risk, aspirin sensitivity, and interactions matter.
Key Benefits
- Supports occasional headache and body discomfort
- Supports a healthy inflammatory response (traditional use)
- Often used for back or joint discomfort support
- May be gentler onset than some options, but still aspirin-family
Common Issues It May Help With
- Headache
- Body aches
- Joint discomfort
- Back discomfort (supportive)
How To Use (Simple)
- Tea/decoction: simmer bark 10–15 minutes
- follow product dosing guidance because potency varies. Capsules/extracts: follow label directions. Use short-term and assess.
Taste / Notes
Bitter, woody, astringent.
Evidence Level
Moderate evidence for pain support in some contexts; effects depend on dose and product standardization.
Cautions
Avoid if you have aspirin allergy/salicylate sensitivity, bleeding disorders, ulcers, or are on blood thinners. Avoid in children/teens with viral illness (aspirin-family precautions). Avoid during pregnancy/breastfeeding unless clinician-approved. Stop before surgery unless clinician says otherwise.
Interactions
Increased bleeding risk with anticoagulants/antiplatelets (warfarin, clopidogrel, aspirin) Additive effects with NSAIDs and other salicylate-containing products If you have asthma triggered by aspirin, avoid
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