NOW Willow Bark Extract 400mg – Natural Salicin Anti-Inflammatory for Pain & Overexertion Relief

NOW Willow Bark Extract 400mg provides a standardised extract of white willow (Salix alba) bark, standardised to 15% salicin — the naturally occurring compound that inspired the development of aspirin. Willow bark has a long history of traditional use for pain relief, fever, and inflammation, and is widely used today as a natural alternative to NSAIDs for minor pain from overexertion, joint discomfort, back pain, and headaches. GMP certified, non-GMO vege capsules.

• 400mg willow bark extract standardised to 15% salicin
• Natural anti-inflammatory and analgesic from traditional herbal medicine
• Relieves minor pain from overexertion, joints, back, and headaches
• Non-GMO, GMP certified vege capsules
• 100 capsules — NOW Foods quality

Frequently Asked Questions

What is salicin and how is it related to aspirin?

Salicin is a naturally occurring compound in willow bark that the body converts to salicylic acid — the active form that reduces pain and inflammation. Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) was synthesised in the 19th century as a more potent, chemically modified version of salicylic acid. Willow bark provides the same natural precursor in a traditional herbal form with a gentler, slower onset than aspirin.

Is willow bark safer than aspirin?

Willow bark is generally considered gentler on the stomach than aspirin, partly due to its slower release of salicylic acid. However, people with aspirin sensitivity, bleeding disorders, or who take blood thinners should avoid willow bark for the same reasons as aspirin. It also shares aspirin's contraindications in children (Reye's syndrome risk) and pregnancy.

What conditions can willow bark help with?

Willow bark has traditional and research support for minor pain from overexertion, lower back pain, osteoarthritis joint pain, headaches, and mild fever. It is not a replacement for medical treatment of severe pain or acute injuries.

How long does willow bark take to work?

Willow bark has a slower onset than synthetic NSAIDs, typically taking 1–2 hours to provide noticeable relief. However, it also has a longer duration of action. For chronic conditions like back pain or joint pain, consistent daily use over 2–4 weeks provides the most significant benefit.

Can I take willow bark with other pain medications?

Avoid combining willow bark with aspirin, NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen), or blood thinners (warfarin) due to additive anticoagulant effects. Combining with paracetamol is generally considered safer, but check with your pharmacist. Not for use in children or during pregnancy.