Red Willow, also known as Red-Osier Dogwood, is a medium deciduous shrub with red branches and twigs. One of the primary traditional uses of Red Willow lies in its analgesic properties. The bark of Red Willow contains salicin, a natural compound akin to aspirin, which serves as a potent pain reliever. Indigenous communities use Red Willow bark preparations to alleviate various types of pain, including headaches, toothaches, and muscle discomfort. Whether brewed into a soothing tea or applied topically as a poultice, Red Willow offers a natural alternative for managing pain and promoting overall well-being. Furthermore, Red Willow is esteemed for its anti-inflammatory properties, making it a valuable ally in combating inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and rheumatism. The salicin present in Red Willow bark helps to reduce inflammation and swelling, thereby easing joint pain and enhancing mobility.
Red Willow is also revered for its astringent qualities, which lend themselves to various medicinal applications. Astringents work to constrict and tone tissues, making them invaluable for addressing conditions such as diarrhea, dysentery, and excessive bleeding. By promoting the contraction of blood vessels and tissues, Red Willow aids in staunching bleeding and alleviating gastrointestinal distress, offering respite from discomfort and promoting gastrointestinal health. Additionally, it is renowned for its antimicrobial properties, which have been harnessed for the treatment of wounds, infections, and respiratory ailments. The bark and leaves of Red Willow contain compounds that exhibit antimicrobial activity, inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria and fungi. Whether infused into herbal preparations or used topically as a wash, Red Willow aids in disinfection and promotes the healing of wounds, fostering a clean and healthy environment for tissue repair.
The inner bark of the Red Willow bark is gathered in the following way. Harvest seven branches and strip the outer (red) bark off the branch. Once the outer bark has been removed, hold your knife at a ninety-degree angle to the branch and scrape the blade up and down the branch, removing the inner (green) bark in pulpy tangles. This is the medicine. You may then dry the inner bark for smoking or steep it for ten minutes to make tea. Smoking the bark is the fastest way to relieve symptoms, however, the tea is just as potent. Many Native American nations use the inner bark of the Red Willow as an ingredient in Kinnikinnik, a sacred ceremonial smoking blend.
Spirit of the Alleghenies 