Diet & Fitness

Willow extracts standardized for salicin content are available. The commonly recommended intake of salicin has been 60–120 mg per day.¹⁶ However, newer studies suggest a higher salicin intake of 240 mg per day may be more effective for treating pain.¹⁷ A willow tea can be prepared from 1/4–1/2 teaspoon (1–2 grams) of bark boiled in about 7 ounces (200 ml) of water for ten minutes. Five or more cups (1250 ml) of this tea can be drunk per day. Tincture, 1–1 1/2 teaspoons (5–8 ml) three times per day, is also occasionally used.