Salix Nigra (Willow) Bark Extract

Salix nigra bark extract is an extract obtained from the bark of the black willow – Salix nigra, which is a North American species of willow. It contains a plant equivalent of aspirin and has anti-inflammatory, astringent, and skin-softening effects.

Willow bark is one of the oldest natural remedies. Before the invention of aspirin, willow bark tea was the go-to remedy to treat fever and inflammation.

The active ingredient in willow bark, salicin, was actually the inspiration that lead to the invention of aspirin - basically, you remove one sugar molecule from salicin and you get salicylic acid.

This reaction also happens in your body when you drink willow bark tea. Salicin is broken down into salicylic acid by gut microflora. The skin also has its own microflora, so that might happen on the skin’s surface as well. This, however, has not really been looked at.

Willow bark extract has potent anti-inflammatory effects due to its salicin content. Salicylic acid is also able to soften hard and cracked skin (for example on the soles of the feet) and has some exfoliating properties.

Tannins from the willow bark extract also have astringent effects and may help with the healing process.

If you are allergic to aspirin, then you should avoid this extract as well.