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Willow Bark White Organic |
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Willow Bark White Organic
WILLOW
BARK, WHITE-ORGANIC
(Salix alba)
History and Folklore
No other tree is as full of vitality and self- regenerating power as the Willow tree. Even cut and seemingly dead branches will come back to life when planted into the soil. This quality of unconstrained growth is exploited in the practice of pollarding. The newly sprouting flexible twigs, also known as 'withies', are regularly harvested and woven into baskets and light furniture. The wood itself is susceptible to rot- Willow loves to grow by the water's edge, but it does not resist its destructive power. Willows are sacred to the Triple Moon Goddess, whose mysteries of regeneration are evident in her abundant vitality. This is why sacrifices to the Great Goddess were always offered in wicker baskets - the regenerative power of the tree was magically transferred to the sacrificial offerings contained therein, which were soon to be reborn in the Underworld. Sacred to the Moon Goddess Hecate, Willow is a tree of magic and enchantment and associated with purification and resurrection. Witches fashioned their brooms with the life-giving withies.
Medicinal Uses:
Willows became famous for their salicin content, which is powerfully anti-inflammatory and acts as a pain relief and febrifuge. For a while it was used as a substitute for the expensive Cinchona bark (Quinine) in the treatment of 'ague' (malaria). It also served as the precursor for salicylic acid, the base substance from which Aspirin was derived. Willow bark is not as powerful as aspirin, but gentler on the stomach and thus better tolerated by most. It is a good nerve tonic and strengthening herb that is very helpful in treating inflammatory conditions such as gout, arthritis and rheumatism. It is good for aching muscles and joints, especially where these are tensed from one-sided use and bad posture. It is a also good remedy for stomach and intestinal catarrh and may be helpful in bladder inflammation. It can be a great supporting herb in feverish conditions such as flu and other infectious diseases.
Magical Uses:
Willow is a tree of witches that has been used in fertility magic to both, increase and decrease fecundity. It is associated with the ebb and flow of the lunar tides, with water and with magic. It is sacred to the Underworld Goddesses and symbolises transformation, regeneration and rebirth. Elfs and water spirits often live near Willows and thus, in popular thought, Willows are considered 'spooky trees'. Native Americans included Red Willow Bark as a sacred herb in their Kinnikinnick blends. See Red Willow.
BOTANICALS:
Plants nourish and feed us, add spice to our life, bestow health and beauty, scent and colour and brighten our days. They mediate love, hope and gratitude; they clothe and cleanse us, they heal and soothe our bodies, minds and souls. They touch every aspect of our existence, from our daily sustenance to the air we breathe, to the keys to other dimensions. They are the alchemists that turn sunlight into the green force of life, continuously revolving, restoring, rebirthing through the cycles of time. They truly are the greatest gift of nature, yet also the one we most take for granted.
Star Child's range of botanicals derives from many regions and traditions of the world. We supply only the best quality herbs, using organically grown and sustainably harvested sources if available. The greater the demand for organic products the more readily they will become available. Your choice to buy and our commitment to supply organic herbs is part of the driving force that sows the seeds for a greener, healthier future.
USE:
There are dozens of ways in which herbs can be used. Many culinary herbs not only impart a great flavour but also have subtle effect on the digestive process. Other herbs are more medicinal than culinary and can be used as remedies, based on the wisdom of age old traditional plant knowledge. For more detailed information on the different types of preparations that can be made with herbs, please refer to the BOTANICALS USAGE section.
CAUTION
We support the notion of taking responsibility for one's own well being and thus strive to make all herbs available for use at your own discretion. It should be noted however, that not all herbs are safe to use in all circumstances. Special cautions may apply when suffering from certain medical conditions, when taking synthetic prescription drugs and during pregnancy. Research and familiarize yourself with any herb you intend to use and make sure you are aware of all special cautions that may apply. The information given here is based on thousands of years of traditional use. It is intended for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace a visit to a medical professional where this is necessary.
If symptoms persist or re-occur, or if you are suffering from a serious medical condition, or if you are presently taking prescription drugs, we recommend that you consult a qualified doctor or practitioner before attempting to help yourself. Look for a practitioner/doctor who you can trust and who is prepared to explore natural health alternatives with you.
Pregnancy is a very special time. If chosen wisely herbs can give tremendous support throughout the entire process. However, due to the vulnerability and sensitivity of the unborn child it is especially important to make sure that the herbs you are using are safe. (This also applies during the time of breast-feeding as all substances ingested by the mother are processed and passed on with the mother's milk). Many herbs may be useful during the latter stages of pregnancy or during labour, but could be dangerous during the first few months. Inform yourself - don't risk regret.
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