Posted 11/3/2007 @ 5:58:00 pm by igoheal.com

God gave us everything we needed when He created the earth for us to live on. That doesn't merely include food and the means for us to build shelter. Many plants and herbs have medicinal properties that can heal us, protect our health, or relieve pain. Even the most advanced of medicines are derived from the natural things He created; in fact, natural ingredients are often used in medicines, treatments, and pain relievers. White willow bark, for example, has been used as a pain reliever for many, many years.

Before there was aspirin, there was willow bark. Hippocrates gave it to his patients who were suffering from fever. White willow bark can alleviate symptoms such as fever, headache, and arthritis.

The active ingredient of willow bark is salicin. More than 20 years after this ingredient was isolated, a synthetic version of salicylic acid (what salicin is converted to in the body) was created in Germany. Unfortunately it led to stomach pains and ulcers, doing no favors to the stomach lining. Although Bayer has changed its formula to be less severe, aspirin is still known to irritate the stomach lining.

White willow bark is less irritating to the stomach, and it may even be more effective. Researchers have theorized that this is because the bark has other active ingredients that are beneficial in relieving pain.

However, there are dangers to using white willow bark. Some people have an allergic reaction to it. Anyone who is allergic to aspirin should not take willow bark. It also shouldn't be taken by pregnant women, children, adolescents, or people suffering from ulcers or kidney disease.

Do your research and seek advice from an alternative medicine expert to find out if white willow bark is right for you.

Tags: ...