White Willow Bark, Certified Organic, 4 & 8 oz., cut/sifted & powder

White Willow Bark (Salix alba)
Responsibly and sustainably wild-sourced
Origin: Croatia (see Origin and Wild-Sourcing sections below)

Educational Info: White Willow Bark, Nature's Aspirin for Pain

White willow bark, derived from the bark of the white willow tree (Salix alba), is widely used today for its natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. Its primary active ingredient, salicin, is converted to salicylic acid in the body, similar to aspirin. Many people use white willow bark as a natural alternative to aspirin to relieve headaches, back pain, osteoarthritis, and other inflammatory conditions. It is commonly available in various forms, such as capsules, tablets, and teas, and is favored by those seeking natural remedies with fewer side effects than synthetic drugs. Additionally, it is often included in herbal formulations for treating acute and chronic pain, emphasizing its versatility in modern natural medicine.

Various clinical studies have supported the efficacy of white willow bark, which have demonstrated its effectiveness in reducing pain and inflammation. Unlike synthetic aspirin, white willow bark tends to have a gentler impact on the stomach lining, making it a preferred choice for individuals with sensitive digestive systems or those who experience gastrointestinal discomfort from conventional pain relievers. This gentler profile, combined with its natural origin, has made white willow bark a staple in many natural health practitioners' toolkits. It is also seen as a valuable component in integrative medicine, combining conventional and alternative treatments to optimize patient outcomes.

Historically, white willow bark has been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine. Ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians and Greeks recognized its medicinal properties and used it to treat pain and fevers. Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, recommended chewing on willow bark for pain relief around 400 BC. Native American tribes also used white willow bark for its healing properties, making decoctions to reduce fever and alleviate pain. This long history of use underscores its enduring value in herbal medicine and its role as a precursor to the development of modern aspirin. The traditional knowledge of white willow bark's benefits was passed down through generations, highlighting the importance of botanical remedies in early medicine.

The transition from traditional to modern use of white willow bark was marked by scientific discoveries in the 19th century, which isolated and identified salicin as the key compound responsible for its therapeutic effects. This led to the synthesis of acetylsalicylic acid, known today as aspirin, which became one of the most widely used medications globally. While aspirin is more potent and standardized, the natural form of salicin found in white willow bark remains popular for those who prefer herbal remedies. The historical journey of white willow bark from ancient medicine to contemporary use highlights the enduring significance of botanical therapies. It underscores the continuous interplay between traditional knowledge and modern science in developing effective treatments.

Suggested Use as a tea:  up to 1 teaspoon of the cut and sifted dried botanical into a tea. Cover and simmer for 5 to 10 minutes, according to your desire and taste. Salix alba is part of the bark of the White Willow Tree and may need a longer steeping time, although you may want to experiment with how long you steep it for taste. The taste can be bitter, especially if brewed longer. Try adding some honey or other soothing herbs to your brew. Its small cut and sifted form makes it easy to use in teas and tinctures.

CAUTION: Consult a physician before using if you may be pregnant, are nursing, may have a bleeding disorder or heart condition or are on blood thinning medications. Overuse can cause GI Tracr irritation. Use caution if you may be sensitive to aspirin or other salicylate-containing drugs; or if you may have Glucose-6 Phosphate Dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency. .Always discuss with your healthcare provider before starting any botanical products. Keep out of reach of children.

ALLERGEN CAUTION: Some ingredients may be processed using the same machinery as known allergens. Use caution if you are sensitive to certain foods or ingredients.

ORIGIN: Mother Island Botanicals sources White Willow Bark from ethical farmers who wild-source using responsible and sustainable practices in Croatia, ensuring the future growth of each tree. These farmers respect the land and revere the importance of Mother Nature’s botanicals and gather in a way that ensures future herbal medicine for generations to come. 

Wildcrafting, Wild-Sourcing: Some botanicals don’t lend themselves to farming, so we find reputable sources for wild-sourced herbs knowing that how the plants are treated, and how the earth is respected is vital to our collective future. Wild-sourced botanicals must come from pristine areas to ensure maximum health benefits. Of course, all our botanicals are third-party tested before arriving to us! Taking too many botanicals from one ecosystem can destroy the area's future and irrevocably impact the symbiotic relationships in that area. Ensuring more botanicals will grow in the place of harvesting is vital to responsible wild-sourcing. 

STORAGE: Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry, dark place away from heat.

RECYCLABLE POUCHES: Mother Island Botanicals packages their herbs in recyclable pouches that are also BPA-free. Please recycle at any location that takes bags and films, like grocery bags. Most grocery stores now have bins for this.

SUSTAINABLY CULTIVATED, RESPONSIBLY HARVESTED: Mother Island Botanicals supports small, family-owned farms. By using our products, you're helping to preserve sustainable and healthy farming methods and contribute to community development. This commitment promotes sustainability and fosters environmental stewardship, which is crucial for the health of our planet. It’s a positive step towards creating a more sustainable and socially responsible agricultural industry.

USDA CERTIFIED ORGANIC: Mother Island Botanicals uses certified organic ingredients from farms that cultivate and harvest products without harmful pesticides and fertilizers, making them a sustainable choice. Organic farming helps nourish both people and communities while promoting biodiversity and enhancing ecosystems. This approach also helps preserve groundwater, creating a healthier, biodiverse environment.

KOSHER CERTIFIED: Mother Island Botanicals’ certified kosher products ensure dietary adherence and quality for those observing kosher dietary laws or with sensitivities to meat and dairy. The rigorous inspections and scrutiny of ingredients enhance allergen awareness and foster confidence in the product's quality.

NON-GMO: Mother Island is committed to sourcing botanicals grown with non-GMO seeds.

cGMP COMPLIANT: Our ingredients are processed in a facility that follows current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP), ensuring the highest quality and safety standards for our product.

DISCLAIMER:  Be a good student of your wellness and do your research for what's best for you. The FDA has not evaluated these statements. None of our statements is intended to replace medical advice or provide cures, treatments, or diagnosis of any illness or disease. Always consult your healthcare provider before using botanical products.