White willow bark
The Latin name of White Willow (bark) is Salix Alba. This tree belongs to the Salicaceae plant family. “Salix” is derived from the Celtic “Sal lis”, which means “by/near water” and refers to the favorite place to grow of this tree. “Alba” (white), refers to the silvery white hairs on the young leaves.
The White willow tree is native too much of Europe but is also found in North Africa and Asia, thriving in damp areas, such as riverbanks. White Willow, a deciduous “falling off at maturity” tree, can grow to 25 m (80 ft.), with green tapering leaves and catkins in spring.
White willow is a natural astringent and was formerly used to staunch internal bleeding. Nicholas Culpeper (1652) advised that burnt ashes of the white willow bark be “mixed with vinegar to take away warts, corns and superfluous flesh”. White willow is an excellent remedy for arthritic and rheumatic pain affecting the back, and joints. In combination with other herbs and dietary changes, it relieves inflammation and swelling and improves mobility in painful or creaky joints.
In cosmetic applications, white willow bark is used for cleansing face tonics for young skin, anti-dandruff shampoos and soft peeling for foot care products to make callus removal easier. It also treats sweaty feet.