Headache Soother

White Willow

HEADACHE SOOTHER

Medicine: White Willow (Salix alba)

Path: 32 Gathering
Directions: Above/West
Vision: Sky without influencing elk spirit within
Physiology: Outer body (brain), Inner effect (soothe)

Indigenous Use: The bark of the willow contains acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin), which reduces pain, inflammation and fever. In addition, aspirin reduces risk of heart disease. The sweat lodge was often made from willow branches and the heat generated by water pored on hot rocks would release healing agents into the vapors.
Other Uses: Used by the Cree, Chippewa, Huron, and Mohawk for arthritis, cuts, cancers, ulcers, and poison ivy-rash.
Preparation: Make tea by placing one to teaspoons of willow bark in a pan. Cover with one cup of water and let it soak for four or five hours. Boil for thirty minutes, cool and strain. Take up to one cup a day, one teaspoon at a time.
Availability: Found in moist woods and along stream edges throughout North America. Common (Herbal Supplier)

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