Willow - the miracle tree

Willow is a fast-growing species whose wood is loose and for this reason is used relatively little in furniture making. However, it is widely used by craftsmen to make spoons, cups, choppers and other objects. Its therapeutic properties are less well known.

The health reservoir in the bark of the willow tree

It is also called the miracle tree. Why? Because its bark is a reservoir of health and is used to obtain many remedies for various ailments. Willow bark is also called 'nature's aspirin'. While aspirin has been used to treat headaches and other aches and pains in the body for more than a century, willow bark has been used as a natural remedy for the same aches and pains for thousands of years.

White willow bark is already used in herbal medicine and is found in powder, liquid extract and chewable pieces. Like its artificial 'sister', aspirin, it should not be consumed in excess to avoid the risk of ulcers or other conditions. Taken responsibly and in moderation, it can be a natural substitute for aspirin, avoiding its side effects. In the following I will present some of the beneficial effects of willow bark.

The extract is used in cosmetics and personal care products due to its astringent, anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. It also has a cleansing and rejuvenating effect on the skin.

Studied by the most prestigious specialist institutions

The peel is also used to treat headaches. Studies at the University of Maryland Medical Center have shown that, unlike aspirin, it takes effect more slowly but is longer lasting.

Willow bark supplements are natural remedies for back, neck and muscle pain. The Journal of Rheumatology published a 2001 study of 200 subjects with back pain who showed significant pain relief after consuming moderate amounts of the willow bark product. It can also be used as an effective treatment for arthritis pain. Studies have shown that willow acts against pain by reducing inflammation. It is also thought that using this type of treatment slows down the progression of the disease.

With properties similar to aspirin, willow bark can prevent heart attack and stroke. Studies have shown that willow bark tea thins the blood, reducing the likelihood of clotting. Willow bark treatment is recommended for anyone whose stomach can't take aspirin.

The above studies, done at the University of Maryland Medical Center, have been published in the literature. Here you can find more information about the therapeutic effects of this wonder tree.

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