When to take it
With food to protect the stomach; the effect usually appears after several days.
← All supplements
OtherModerate evidence
White willow (bark)
Also known as: Salix alba, willow bark
White willow bark contains salicin, which the body converts into compounds related to salicylic acid. It is traditionally used for back and joint pain; the effect is slower and milder than with painkillers.
What it is used for
- back pain – moderate evidence from several clinical trials
- osteoarthritis joint pain – weak to moderate evidence
- headaches – weak evidence, mainly traditional use
Forms and how they differ
extract standardised to salicin
prefer products that state the salicin content
dried bark / tea
low and variable salicin content
combinations with feverfew
aimed at headaches, evidence for the combination is limited
Pairs well with
Ginger, boswellia or turmeric as part of overall joint care.
Do not combine / separate
Do not combine with aspirin, other pain or anti-inflammatory medicines, or blood thinners without asking your doctor.
Watch out for
Not suitable for children and teenagers, during pregnancy and breastfeeding, or with aspirin/salicylate allergy, asthma, stomach ulcers, bleeding disorders, or kidney or liver disease. If you take medicines, consult your doctor.
Safety
Do not exceed the label dose; digestive upset and allergic reactions are possible.
Practical tip
If pain lasts more than a few weeks, have it checked rather than increasing the dose.
Products containing White willow (bark) 2
White willow (bark) + Feverfew 500 mgextract · 500 mg / capsule
White willow (bark) 400 mgbark extract (salicin) · 400 mg / capsule
How to read the evidence rating
Strong evidenceModerate evidenceWeak evidenceNo evidence
Strong = several good human studies or official recommendations; moderate = promising but smaller studies; weak = few studies or mixed results; no evidence = claims not confirmed.
Combination check
Select the supplements you take and, if relevant, your medicines. We show what interferes, what needs a time gap and what to watch out for.
Check White willow (bark) with othersWhich supplements do you actually need?
Fénix Methode picks them from your blood results and schedules when to take what – no needless purchases.
From the same group
AlfalfaNo evidenceAndrographisWeak evidenceAroniaWeak evidenceBarley grassWeak evidenceBee pollenWeak evidenceBeef organs (desiccated)Weak evidence
Important notice
This information is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist. We do not give medicine dosages. Supplements are no substitute for a varied diet; if pregnant, breastfeeding, ill or on medication, consult a doctor first.