Willow Bark

Introduction:

Willow bark comes from a weeping deciduous tree or shrub which has been traditionally used as an herbal medicine for aches, pains, and fever. Willow bark containes salicin which metabolizes into salicylic acid and has a similar response in the body as aspirin.

Willow Bark Adverse Reactions and Interactions:

Willow bark and it’s extract contains salicin which resuts in similar effects as aspirin in the body. Willow bark has antiplatelet effects and may interact with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), warfarin (Coumadin), heparin, and aspirin to increase risk of bleeding. Acetaminophen was reported as a potential cause of kidney damage when taken with willow which contains salicylate. Willow bark should not be used long-term. Willow bark should not be used for children with a fever. Caution should be exercised in patiients with a history of any type of bleeding, low platelet counts, gastrointestinal bleeding, gastritis or peptic ulcer disease.