- In the United States, willow bark is used by herbalists as an antipyretic (fever reducer), a mild analgesic (pain reliever), and an anti-inflammatory. There is currently strong scientific evidence that willow bark is effective for osteoarthritis and lower back pain. Early study suggests that willow bark extracts may not be helpful for rheumatoid arthritis, but further study is warranted to confirm these recommendations. Taking willow bark may increase the risk of bleeding; however, this risk may be less than taking aspirin.
- Several countries in Europe have approved willow bark for pain and inflammatory disorders. The German Commission E has approved willow bark for fever, rheumatic ailments, and headaches. The British Herbal Compendium indicates that willow bark can be used for rheumatic and arthritic conditions, and fever associated with cold and influenza. In France, willow bark has been approved as an analgesic to treat headache and toothache pain, as well as painful articular (joint) conditions, tendonitis, and sprains. The European Scientific Cooperative on Phytotherapy (ESCOP) has approved willow bark extract for the treatment of fever, pain, and mild rheumatic complaints.
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ingredients
Willow bark (Salix spp.)
Contents
Natural Standard developed the above evidence-based information based on a thorough systematic review of the available scientific articles. For comprehensive information about alternative and complementary therapies on the professional level, go to . Selected references are listed below.
- Baker S, Thomas PS. Herbal medicine precipitating massive haemolysis. Lancet 5-2-1987;1(8540):1039-1040.
View Abstract - Biegert C, Wagner I, Ludtke R, et al. Efficacy and safety of willow bark extract in the treatment of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis: results of 2 randomized double-blind controlled trials. J.Rheumatol. 2004;31(11):2121-2130.
View Abstract - Chrubasik S, Künzel O, Model A, et al. Assalix® vs. Vioxx® for low back pain - a randomised open controlled study. 8th Annual Symposium on Complementary Health Care, 6th - 8th December 2001 2001.
- Chrubasik S, Eisenberg E, Balan E, et al. Treatment of low back pain exacerbations with willow bark extract: a randomized double-blind study. Am J Med 2000;109(1):9-14.
View Abstract - Chrubasik S, Kunzel O, Black A, et al. Potential economic impact of using a proprietary willow bark extract in outpatient treatment of low back pain: an open non-randomized study. Phytomedicine 2001;8(4):241-251.
View Abstract - Chrubasik S, Kunzel O, Model A, et al. Treatment of low back pain with a herbal or synthetic anti-rheumatic: a randomized controlled study. Willow bark extract for low back pain. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2001;40(12):1388-1393.
View Abstract - Edwards JE, Oldman A, Smith L, et al. Single dose oral aspirin for acute pain. Cochrane Library 2002;1.
- Eisenberg E, Chrubasik S, Balan E, et al. Willow bark extract for low back pain: a randomised double-blind study. Focus on Alternative and Complementary Therapies 2002;7(1):91-92.
- Ernst E, Chrubasik S. Phyto-anti-inflammatories. A systematic review of randomized, placebo- controlled, double-blind trials. Rheum Dis Clin North Am 2000;26(1):13-27, vii.
View Abstract - Gagnier JJ, van Tulder M, Berman B, Bombardier C. Herbal medicine for low back pain. Cochrane Database.Syst.Rev 2006;(2):CD004504.
View Abstract - Hyson MI. Anticephalgic photoprotective premedicated mask. A report of a successful double-blind placebo-controlled study of a new treatment for headaches with associated frontalis pain and photophobia. Headache 1998;38:475-477.
- Little CV, Parsons T, Logan S. Herbal therapy for treating osteoarthritis. The Cochrane Library 2002;1.
- Marson P, Pasero G. [The Italian contributions to the history of salicylates]. Reumatismo. 2006;58(1):66-75.
View Abstract - Schmid B, Ludtke R, Selbmann HK, et al. Efficacy and tolerability of a standardized willow bark extract in patients with osteoarthritis: randomized placebo-controlled, double blind clinical trial. Phytother Res 2001;15(4):344-350.
View Abstract - Schmid B, Ludtke R, Selbmann HK, et al. [Effectiveness and tolerance of standardized willow bark extract in arthrosis patients. Randomized, placebo controlled double-blind study]. Z Rheumatol 2000;59(5):314-320.
View Abstract
Disclaimer: This tool is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.
