Botanical Library
Willow Bark
Holistic tradition
🍄Image: Willow BarkAdd an image URL to this ingredient in Admin to replace this placeholder.
At a glance
Where it's from
Native to Europe and Asia.
Look & taste
The bark of the white willow tree. Bitter, astringent
Signature compounds
Salicin (a natural precursor to aspirin's active).
Traditionally used for
The original 'herbal aspirin' - a traditional remedy for pain and fever.
In Canada, we can say...
Used in Herbal Medicine for short-term relief of lower back pain, minor joint pain (osteoarthritis), headache, and fever associated with the common cold.
Did you know?
Aspirin was developed from salicin, the pain-relieving compound first isolated from willow bark.
History & natural history
Used since Hippocrates for pain and fever; the inspiration for aspirin.
What we're actually allowed to say
🇨🇦 Health Canada
✓ Permitted: Used in Herbal Medicine for short-term relief of lower back pain, minor joint pain (osteoarthritis), headache, and fever associated with the common cold.
How to use it
As a standardized capsule or tea.
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Willow Bark isn't in stock yet. Tell us you'd like it and we'll consider adding it.
Request Willow Bark →Side effects & safety
Do not use if pregnant, breastfeeding, or allergic to salicylates (ASA). Check with a practitioner if you have asthma, ulcers, or take blood thinners.
A note on how to read this page. Traditional (TCM / Ayurveda) and holistic notes are cultural and historical context, offered for education — not medical advice or health claims. Health Canada's permitted claims reflect what regulators have assessed. Emerging research is early, and not a promise of results. Nothing here is intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Always talk to your (or your pet's) health professional before starting a supplement.