Willow Bark Aspirin

[Nemesis]

Willow Bark vs. Aspirin


Willow bark and aspirin both have properties that can reduce pain and inflammation. The salicin in willow bark is so close to aspirin that it was used to develop aspirin in the 1800s. If you are experiencing pain or swelling, talk to your doctor about willow bark, aspirin and other herbs or medications that may bring you relief to decide which option is right for you.

Uses
Willow bark and aspirin are both effective at treating minor to moderate pain and inflammation. Aspirin is also a fever reducer, and willow bark may help reduce fever and boost the immune system, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Willow bark is effective at relieving pain from headaches, lower back pain and pain from osteoarthritis. Aspirin can prevent heart attacks and strokes in some people, but you should not use it in this matter unless your doctor directs you to do so.

Dosage

You can take willow bark as a tea or capsule. To make a tea, boil 1 to 2 tsp. of dried willow bark in 8 oz. of water for 10 to 15 minutes and allow it to steep for 30 minutes. You can drink three to four cups of the tea per day. Capsules containing powdered willow bark are available through health food stores and nutritional supplement providers. Take 60 to 240 milligrams per day to relieve pain and inflammation. Aspirin tablets come in different strengths. Follow the dosage instructions on the packaging or your doctor's instructions. Be aware that other products and over-the-counter pain relievers may contain aspirin or acetylsalicylic acid. Do not take willow bark and aspirin at the same time.

Side Effects
While generally safe for most people, both willow bark and aspirin can cause side effects. Side effects of willow bark are usually mild and include gastrointestinal problems and stomach bleeding. Taking more than the recommended amount of willow bark can cause skin rash, vomiting, kidney inflammation and ringing in the ears. Aspirin's side effects are similar to willow bark and include upset stomach, heartburn, drowsiness or headache. Severe side effects of aspirin include bloody or black stools, severe stomach pain, coughing up blood and hearing problems. If you experience any of these side effects while taking aspirin, stop taking aspirin and see your doctor as soon as possible.

Interactions
Willow bark and aspirin contain salicylates that may interact with other drugs and herbs. Talk to your doctor about any medications, herbs or supplements you currently take before using willow bark or aspirin. Willow bark and aspirin can strengthen the effects of blood-thinning medications and increase the risk of bleeding. Taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, in conjunction with willow bark or aspirin can increase the risk of gastrointestinal problems and stomach bleeding. Willow bark and aspirin may make beta blockers and diuretics less effective.

Warnings
Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take willow bark or aspirin. Willow bark and aspirin are not recommended for use in children or teenagers due to the potential of Reye's syndrome, a condition that causes fat to build up in the body's major organs and brain. Tell your doctor if you take willow bark or aspirin before surgery. Talk to your doctor before taking willow bark or aspirin if you drink three or more alcoholic beverages per day.

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1: Rip some bark off a willow tree.

2: Start a fire.

3: Bring water to a boil.

4: Place willow tree bark into the boiling water. Use 1-2 tsp for every 8 oz of water.

5: Simmer for 10-15 minutes.

6: Steep it as you would tea for 1/2 hour. This is basically aspirin - the chemical that aspirin is made of is found in the bark of willow trees. However, it isn't exactly aspirin, but salicylic acid, which can have more side effects.