White Willow Bark

White Willow Bark has been used as a medicinal herb for thousands of years, and has chemical properties that are being tested for their immune boosting, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and pain reducing capabilities. It is widely known as the aspirin herb, because it contains salicin, an aspirin like chemical.

The use of willow bark for the treatment of pain and inflammation has been traced back to 400 BC, and it is sold today as a natural herbal remedy for headache, lower back pain, fever, and arthritis. It is also sometimes recommended for flu, bursitis, and menstrual cramps. Although it shares many characteristics in common with aspirin and has many of aspirin’s side effects, it may have advantages over aspirin in that its effects may be more long lasting.
White willow is commonly known as European willow, a deciduous tree found in North America, Asia, and Europe.

How do you Take White Willow Bark?
Willow bark is available in capsule form, and loose for infusions in tea. For a medicinal tea, boil one to two teaspoons of bark in eight ounces of water and let steep for ten minutes.

When You Shouldn’t Take White Willow Bark
White willow bark is not recommended if you are under 16, pregnant, or nursing. Any change in medication should be discussed with your physician.

White Willow Bark and Your Pets
Although aspirin and white willow bark are poisonous to your cat, there are instances where white willow bark has been used successfully as a pain treatment for dogs.

As with any medication, consult your veterinarian before attempting to diagnose or treat your dog.

Note:Common Poisons to Your Pets – While we are talking about pets, please remember that any aspirin-like substance can kill your cat, and chocolate and onions are toxic to your dog. Please be careful, so your pets can be members of your family for many years to come.

The staff at I-Supplements

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