White Willow
Salix alba
About White Willow
White Willow (Salix alba) is a herb used in the Western Herbalism tradition to help with Pain, Headache, Fever, and Arthritis. The aerial parts and leaves are the parts traditionally used, taken internally.
Botanical background
Salix alba (white willow) is a species of willow native to Europe and western and central Asia. The name derives from the white tone to the undersides of the leaves.
Source: Wikipedia, via iNaturalist
Parts used
Tea / Infusion
- Steep 1–2 tsp of dried White Willow in freshly boiled water for 5–10 minutes.
- Cover while steeping.
- Strain and drink.
Tincture
- Pack dried White Willow into a jar and cover with 40–60% alcohol.
- Seal and steep for 4–6 weeks, shaking daily.
- Strain and store in a dark dropper bottle.
Powder / Capsule
- Grind dried White Willow into a fine powder.
- Fill size 00 capsules or stir into smoothies or honey.
Topical / Poultice
- Mash fresh White Willow or mix the powder with a little water to form a paste.
- Apply to the affected area for 20–30 minutes.
Infused Oil
- Fill a jar with dried White Willow.
- Pour over a carrier oil until submerged.
- Leave for 4–6 weeks, then strain.
- Use topically or as a salve base.
Herbal Bath
- Brew 4–6 tbsp of White Willow in 1 litre of hot water for 15 minutes, strain, and add to a warm bath.
- Soak for 20–30 minutes.
Pregnancy, Breastfeeding & Children
Pregnancy
AvoidWhite willow bark contains salicin, which the body converts toward aspirin-like compounds — contraindicated in pregnancy for the same reasons aspirin is generally avoided (bleeding risk, potential effects late in pregnancy).
Breastfeeding
AvoidSalicin content means it's generally avoided during breastfeeding, mirroring aspirin precautions.
Children
AvoidSalicin-containing herbs are avoided in children and teenagers recovering from viral illness due to a theoretical Reye's syndrome risk, the same concern as with aspirin.
Contraindications
Warnings
⚠️ Allergic Reactions
Discontinue immediately if you experience rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
⚠️ Not Medical Advice
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal remedies.
Drug & herb interactions
Aspirin, NSAIDs, blood thinners
Contains salicin, chemically similar to aspirin — additive bleeding risk and should not be combined with other salicylates.
Methotrexate
Salicylates can increase methotrexate toxicity.
Where to find in nature
Native region
Europe, North America, Australia
Climate
Temperate
Habitat
Meadows, hedgerows, woodland edges, and cottage herb gardens
🌿 To see White Willow growing, visit botanical gardens, university plant collections, or specialist herb nurseries near you. If foraging in the wild, always work with an expert identifier — never consume a plant you are not 100% certain of.
Where to buy
In store
- Health food stores (Whole Foods, Natural Grocers, Holland & Barrett, GNC)
- Naturopathic clinics and integrative medicine practices
- Specialist herbal apothecaries and herbalist practices
- Farmers markets with herb vendors
Online
iHerb
Wide selection of standardised extracts, capsules, and powders with lab testing
Mountain Rose Herbs
Premium bulk dried herbs — certified organic, ethically sourced
Starwest Botanicals
Large selection of certified organic bulk herbs and powders
Herb Pharm
High-quality liquid extracts and tinctures, rigorous quality standards
Amazon
Convenient — verify brand certifications and check third-party testing
Etsy
Small-batch artisan herbalists, hand-harvested and wildcrafted herbs
Quality tips
When buying White Willow, look for: certified organic labelling, clearly stated country of origin, third-party lab testing for heavy metals and pesticides, and a batch expiry date. Standardised extracts offer consistent dosing; bulk dried herbs are more economical for regular use. Avoid very cheap, unlabelled products — quality varies enormously.