This is also reflected in our Easter tradition - whipping. However, the use of willow rods in carol singing is a relatively modern affair. Since time immemorial, this tree has had practical uses in basketry, carving, strengthening river and pond banks and water-finding - dowsing. The healing effects of willow bark have been used by Chinese physicians for thousands of years. Slightly younger recipes for willow bark were also written by Egyptian physicians and their colleagues in ancient Greece (Hippocrates) and Rome. The correctness of their observations and treatments was confirmed many centuries later by modern research. Thus, today it is scientifically proven that honest "whipping" can also have antipyretic, analgesic, antirheumatic and antibiotic effects.
European woman in white
White willow (Salix alba) comes from us, i.e. from Europe. It grows from Scandinavia to the Mediterranean, North Africa and Central Asia. It has also spread overseas - in North America or Australia. Its habitat is always linked to water - usually lowlands, floodplains, flooded areas, floodplain forests, banks, dykes, springs. It always grows in a sunny place. It is often planted artificially, even grown in large numbers for the sake of wicker harvesting. The white willow is a massive and tall tree with dark grey bark and a fan-shaped crown. The thin alternate leaves on the twigs are glossy on the face, grey-white underneath with fine hairs. Hence its generic name. Other willows (about 500 species) have darker hairs. Willows are dioecious plants, flowering in early spring. They produce capsules with small but properly hairy seeds. If you take hold of a wicker planted in childhood, it will probably outlive you - white willow can live to be 100 years old.
Miracle of Pharmacy
In addition to flavonoids, enzymes, resin, tannins and minerals, willow bark also contains significant amounts of the glycoside salicin. This main medicinal ingredient was extracted in 1838 in Germany, called salicylic acid, and industrially produced. In 1899, chemists (Bayer) altered the structure of the molecule because of its adverse effects (prolonged use of too much damages the stomach lining, causing pain, stomach ulcers and severe bleeding), which led to the development of acetylsalicylic acid and one of the best-known drugs, aspirin. However, even its long-term use is not recommended. Doctors have now confirmed that white willow bark extract - a natural mixture of salicin and other substances - is much more effective than synthetic aspirin and can also be taken long-term.
The Power of Nature
White willow bark extract is very effective in suppressing fever, inflammation and pain. This combination is great for colds, however, willow is a much stronger caliber. It can also relieve trigeminal neuritis, severe migraines, arthritis, after surgery, and so on. Overall, it is calming - it is taken for insomnia. Compared to aspirin, it is also useful in the treatment of chronic inflammation of tendons, nerves, joints or teeth. Willow tea promotes elimination, so it is good for urinary tract infections, rheumatism and gout. External use in the form of baths, poultices or salves is offered for various inflammations or skin injuries. In addition to the anti-inflammatory and disinfectant effects, the astringent, astringent action of willow bark is also applied here. It helps literally from head to toe - for dandruff, acne, festering wounds, frostbite, mycosis, haemorrhoids and sweating feet.
For wands in moderation
You can get willow bark in various forms at the pharmacy. But why not take advantage of the ideal opportunity? When you go for wands on a whim, combine the pleasant with the useful. Dry and rub the peeled bark quickly, but be very careful with the dosage: the tea (a teaspoon of bark per cup of water, stronger for external use) is taken by the spoonful, just a few times a day. Like aspirin, willow bark must not be taken by pregnant and lactating women, patients with stomach ulcers, bronchial asthma and bleeding disorders.
Did you know that?
Some willows are dwarf, such as Salix herbacea, which grows to a height of about 6 cm.
Source : https://www.energy.sk/sk/menu_x6613x.asp
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