By The Green Parent
14th April 2021
WILLOW IS THE FIFTH tree in the Celtic Tree Calendar. It is the tree most associated with the feminine and the lunar cycle. Found most often near waterways throughout temperate regions it has a long list of medicinal uses and magical properties. Willow relates to Monday, the activity of bees and is often used as a honey tree. Although the most commonly accepted species is the eponymous tree from Kenneth Grahame’s popular tale – the weeping willow (Salix babylonica), it is actually the white willow, salix alba, which is the tree of the Celtic Ogham. There are over three-hundred species in the genera willow, which is a close cousin to the poplar.
The leaves of this tall tree, which can grow to 25 metres, are lance-shaped; shiny dark green above, whitish and silky beneath. They turn yellow in the autumn. In fact, the golden brilliance of the willow in the autumn remains long after other trees have shed all their finery. The bark is grey and rough. You’ll notice at this time of year, the beautiful catkins, which are around 5cm in length. Willows herald the spring, along with the robin. The fruit matures in late spring and is a 2cm long capsule, light brown in colour.
MANIFOLD USES
In flat areas, willow can be planted to prevent flooding and can be used to protect river banks from erosion. Willow has long been the predominant tree used in basketry, with many varieties being cultivated for the colour of the branches allowing for variety in the baskets themselves. The wood has been used for cabinets, all types of furniture, barrels and prized for cricket bats. According to Druidic mysteries, two scarlet snake eggs were hidden within the Willow. The Universe was hatched from these two eggs, one containing the Sun, the other the Earth, relating to both cosmic birth and the birth of mankind. Traditionally, in spring rituals, these were replaced by hens’ eggs, coloured scarlet for the Sun and eaten at Beltane.
HEALING PROPERTIES
When scraped, the inner bark - which peels away easily - contains salicylic acid, the active ingredient of aspirin. These scrapings were traditionally used to alleviate pain, lower fevers and as an astringent tonic. Willow was used to relieve rheumatic conditions and gout since these conditions were widespread and common. Its powers were also used as a diuretic, a gargle for sore throats and gums, an external wash for sores, skin problems, wounds and burns. All varieties of this tree can be utilized as an eyewash, to clear skin and a decoction of leaves and bark, simmered, can be used to treat dandruff. All can also be utilized to prevent recurring fevers and as a digestive tonic, especially for dyspepsia. If you are interested in using willow in your herbal practice, the bark is collected in the Spring. Soak three teaspoons in one cup of cold water for five hours; then simmer lightly for twenty minutes. For indigestion and as a tonic, take one cup per day. For skin eruptions and similar complaints, such as bleeding gums and sore throats, use a stronger solution. You can also use an oil base in order to utilize this as an astringent salve.
EMOTIONAL BENEFITS
In the Bach Flower Remedies, Willow Flower Essence is used as a remedy for bitterness and resentment; people who are stuck in a position of blaming others (or circumstances) for their problems, who have an experience of being a victim or being treated unfairly by life, would benefit from this essence. Willow branches are said to be the best for divining water, channelling earth energy and to find lost objects. Shavings of the wood, pieces of bark and whole leaves can be placed in a small bag under your pillow. This same package can be used to assuage feelings of powerlessness, an unreasoned fear of death and panic attacks, and to assist you in nurturing yourself emotionally. It is suggested that Willow be used in the same way when experiencing grief and to aid in this healing process.
