Another staple of ancient medicine was the water-loving willow tree. The use of willow bark dates back to Hippocrates in 400 BC.
American Indians chewed willow bark to relieve fever and inflammation. Willow bark contains a substance called salicin. Salicin is used to create acetylsalicylic acid. Its better known name is aspirin.
In ancient Greece, the priests of Aesclepius would place willow branches in the beds of infertile women.
The ancient Celts would simmer willow bark, then let it steep and drink the resulting tea. They also believed that the spirit of the dead person would rise up through a willow sapling planted overĀ a grave and retain the essence of the departed one.
In the cold, damp areas of Britain, Scotland, Wales, and Ireland, the magical willow-bark tea must have been a precious commodity for people who suffered from rheumatism and arthritis!
Renee, that is fabulous information. I had no idea. There are several uses you sighted that should possibly be considered today. Why has no one thought of producing a willow-bark tea nowadays? Hmmm…
Thanks for this very interesting info…Rea
Actually, Rea, you can purchase willow bark tea. I have seen it for sale online. Supposedly it is less irritating to the stomach, too.