Populus fremontii

Populus fremontii
Family:Populus fremontii; Anodyne; Antiinflammatory; Antiscorbutic; Febrifuge.
Common name: Cottonwood
The inner bark was consumed by various native North American Indian tribes in order to prevent scurvy. The bark of most if not all members of the genus contain salicin a glycoside that probably decomposes into salicylic acid (aspirin) in the body. The bark is therefore anodyne anti-inflammatory and febrifuge. It is used especially in treating rheumatism and fevers and also to relieve the pain of menstrual cramps. An infusion of the bark and leaves has been used to wet a cloth which is then tied around the head as a treatment for headaches. The infusion has also been used as a wash on cuts bruises wounds and insect stings. A poultice of the boiled bark and leaves has been used to treat swellings caused by muscle strain.

Herbal Database

01.01.2005 05:17 []