Arthritis Home Remedy: White Willow Bark

A known home remedy for arthritis is white willow bark, an herb found in places like Europe, Asia and America. White willow bark has long been known for its affect on reducing fever as well as inflammation and is widely used today as a treatment for headache, inflammatory conditions like tendinitis and bursitis, and pain conditions, particularly in arthritis.

White willow bark contains salicin, a natural chemical similar to the acetylsalicylic acid commonly used in aspirin. Salicin can relieve pain and inflammation but can require a longer time to take effect compared to aspirin. Though it takes longer to kick in, studies show the arthritis pain relieving effects of salicin usually last longer.

Research has shown the effectiveness if this herb to relieve pain and lessen inflammation. Studies have shown white willow bark’s positive effect on arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. The studies mostly declared that white willow bark provide natural arthritis relief. Aside from the said benefits that can be obtained from white willow bark, it has also been known that it contains antioxidants, antiseptic, and immune-boosting components.

The standard dosage for white willow bark is 120 to 240 milligrams per day. This does is equivalent to 50 mg of aspirin, which is considered a minimal dosage. Aspirin and other known anti-inflammatory drugs are known to be gastric irritants but white willow bark does not cause this side effect. This is because most of the acetylsalicylic acid is derived from salicin in the herb, only after salicin is absorbed in the body. However, questions are then raised as to how white willow bark takes effect when it only contains minimal amount of acetylsalicylic acid.

Unlike aspirin, white willow bark does not affect blood coagulation and does not irritate the stomach. However, due to components similar to the ingredients found on aspirin, it is possible that long term use of white willow bark can lead to effects that are of the same type with aspirin use. Additionally, white willow bark is not to be given to children because of the possible development of Reye’s syndrome. Also, pregnant and lactating mothers should not use white willow bark without first consulting their doctor. Finally, it is not supposed to be taken in combination with medications used for cardiovascular, bleeding or kidney disorders. Aspirin and white willow bark should not be taken at the same time. Medications known to have reactions with white willow bark include blood thinners like warfarin, heparin, methotrexate, phenytoin, metoclopramide, sulfonamide, spironolactone, potassium sparin and many more.