The willow tree is famous for its long drooping blade-like leaves. Its bark and leaves are used as medicine for easing pain and reducing inflammation.

Here are three facts about willow bark that you may not know:

1. The willow tree is native to China. The tree is now planted across the Northern Hemisphere. Most are usually found in temperate areas where they thrive in very moist soils, usually near a body of water. There are arctic and alpine species as well.
2. In TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine), among its other properties, willow bark is used to help Clear Damp Heat from the Bladder. This includes treating Hot, Damp urinary tract infections, or difficulty urinating.
3. Willow is listed as one of the 38 substances used to prepare Bach Flower Remedies, an alternative medicine, developed in the 1930’s by Dr. Edward Bach, to treat emotional problems and pain. Similar to homeopathy, they are highly diluted preparations, however, Bach Flower Remedies only make use of 38 different species of wildflowers.

Find out more about willow trees and willow bark and leaves as medicine.