Element Associations: Water
Planetary Associations: Moon, Venus
Astrological Associations: Cancer
Chakra Associations: Solar Plexus
Deity Associations: Hecate, Persephone, Brigid, Helice
Energy: Feminine/Receptive
Magical Properties: Love, Divination, Protection, Healing, Fertility, Dreams
Botanical Name: Salix Alba
Origin: Bulgaria
 
White willow bark, with its compound salicin, is not just a pain reliever. It's a versatile tool commonly used in teas, tinctures, balms, and baths to reduce pain and inflammation. But its uses don't stop there. White willow bark is also employed for various magical purposes, including protection, healing, divination, and fertility. It's a powerful tool in moon magic, with its branches often used to create wands imbued with lunar energy. And if you keep white willow bark under your pillow, it may even enhance your dreams.

Converting willow bark into aspirin began in 1828 when German chemist Felix Hoffmann isolated the active ingredient, salicin, from the bark. This compound was then modified into acetylsalicylic acid, or aspirin, which was first manufactured and sold by the Bayer company in 1899. This was the birth of modern miracle medicines, and aspirin has since become a staple in treating joint pain.