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Willow bark

Willow bark is known to be rich in salicins and tannins and has been reported to have analgesic, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore the compositions of the present invention also provide anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory activity. It is frequently administered as a painkiller and is believed to be a natural precursor to aspirin. It is commonly used to treat rheumatism, fever, headaches and pain caused by inflammation. Important ingredients of willow bark (Salix alba) include salicin and salicylic acid (o-hydroxybenzoic acid), salicortin and fragilin (acetyl salicin) while the bark of poplars contains populin (benzoyl salicin). Salicin is the glucoside of salicyl alcohol. Salicin, as an extract of white willow bark, is generally absorbed more slowly than aspirin and some of the other NSAIDs, and typically has a longer duration of action in the body. It is thought to have fewer adverse effects, especially gastrointestinal upset, than aspirin.

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