White willow, also known as vine (Salix alba), is a medicinal plant from the willow family that is Salicaceae. It is a tree that can reach a height of 20 to 30 metres. The young branches of the white willow have silvery-fluffy tops, while the older branches become bare and have a brownish colour. The leaves of this tree are alternate, entire, serrate, pointed, lanceolate or broadly lanceolate, 5 to 10 cm long and 1 to 3 cm wide.
Scientific research confirms the medicinal properties of willow. It was from this plant that scientists first extracted salicylic acid and synthesised numerous derivatives, from which the modern pharmaceutical industry produces effective anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anti-rheumatic drugs.
Preparations obtained from the bark of white willow can be used both externally and internally. Internal use is recommended for gastritis (as bitterness stimulates digestion), colitis, dysentery, fever, internal bleeding, tuberculosis, typhoid, rheumatism, gout, gynaecological diseases, sore throat and acute respiratory diseases.
Externally, willow bark is used for gargling and mouthwash, as well as for foot baths for varicose veins, excessive sweating of the feet and skin diseases. Willow bark is also used as a sedative and to increase sweating. Even when used less frequently, it is effective in treating fever, headaches and rheumatic diseases.
White willow bark tea is recommended for fevers, headaches, stomach diseases, gout and rheumatism. A decoction of willow bark is used for diarrhoea (due to its astringent effect), as well as a tonic for hypotension.
