White Willow Bark 60 Capsules

A natural form of salicylate which is as effective as aspirin in the treatment of pain, but safer to use over longer periods.

A natural form of salicylate which is as effective as aspirin in the treatment of pain, but safer to use over longer periods.

PHARMACOLOGICAL ACTION
Willow bark contains salicin, salicin esters and other phenolic compounds. Salicin is a phenolic glucoside consisting of the aglycone saligenin (salicyl alcohol) combined with glucose. There are important differences between the salicylate compounds found in willow bark and in aspirin. Aspirin is a potent inhibitor of both COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes because it irreversibly acetylates these enzymes thus inactivating them. It therefore has both analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties but also damages the gastric mucosa and inhibits platelet function. Unlike aspirin, salicylic acid has the important therapeutic advantage in that it does not inactivate COX-2 once it is formed. It does however suppress formation of COX-2.
Salicin, the major salicylate derivative in willow bark, effectively delivers salicylate into the blood stream but it does so without increasing damage to the gastric epithelium. It is therefore suitable for long term salicylate therapy.

INDICATIONS
Traditionally used to support relief of inflammatory discomfort such as rheumatism, joint pain and lower back pain, and to ease fever.

CONTRA INDICATIONS
Do not use during pregnancy and lactation unless under medical supervision.

WARNINGS
Not to be taken by children under the age of sixteen. Always consult your health professional if you are seriously ill.

INTERACTIONS
May enhance the effect of anticoagulants.

PREGNANCY AND LACTATION
Willow bark contains salicylates which are exreted in breast milk and have been linked to adverse effects in breast-fed infants.Insufficient reliable information is available regarding the use during pregnancy; avoid using.

DOSAGE AND DIRECTIONS OF USE
Take four to six capsules as required for the treatment of pain. Do not take more than twelve capsules per day.

SIDE EFFECTS AND SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS
None at normal dosage levels.

KNOWN SYMPTOMS OF OVERDOSAGE AND PARTICULARS OF ITS TREATMENT
None described.

PRESENTATION
Securitainer containing 60 capsules.