Populus nigra (Populus nigra): Benefits, Dosage, Safety & Evidence

Frequently asked questions

How does Populus nigra work for pain and inflammation?

Populus nigra buds contain salicin and populin, salicylate compounds that the body converts to salicylic acid. This mechanism is similar to how aspirin works, inhibiting cyclooxygenase enzymes and reducing prostaglandin synthesis. The flavonoids chrysin and tectochrysin contribute additional anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity. This dual action explains its traditional use for pain relief and inflammatory conditions. Evidence level: C (preliminary evidence based on pharmacological studies).

Does Populus nigra interact with blood thinners or aspirin?

Yes, Populus nigra should be avoided by those taking anticoagulants, antiplatelet medications, or NSAIDs. The salicin content has blood-thinning properties similar to aspirin, potentially increasing bleeding risk when combined with warfarin, clopidogrel, or similar drugs. Individuals with aspirin sensitivity or salicylate allergies should not use Populus nigra preparations. Always consult a healthcare provider before combining with prescription medications.

What is the recommended dosage for Populus nigra tincture?

The standard adult dosage for Populus nigra bud tincture is 2-3ml taken three times daily. This should be diluted in water and taken with food to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal irritation. Dosage may vary depending on the specific preparation and concentration, so follow manufacturer guidelines or consult a qualified herbalist. Evidence level: C (traditional use with limited clinical data).

Is Populus nigra safe to take during pregnancy?

No, Populus nigra is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The salicin content poses risks similar to aspirin, including potential effects on fetal development and bleeding complications during delivery. Salicylates can cross the placenta and may cause complications. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid all Populus nigra preparations. Consult a healthcare provider for safe alternatives for respiratory or pain concerns during pregnancy.

What are the medicinal uses of Populus nigra buds?

Populus nigra buds, known as Populis Gemma, are traditionally used for respiratory conditions including coughs and bronchitis due to their expectorant properties. The buds are also applied for wound healing, pain relief, and reducing inflammation in joints and muscles. The salicin content provides analgesic effects, while antimicrobial compounds support wound healing. Evidence level: C, based primarily on traditional use and pharmacological studies.

What side effects can Populus nigra cause?

The most common side effect of Populus nigra is gastrointestinal irritation, including stomach upset and nausea, particularly when taken on an empty stomach. Taking preparations with food can minimize this effect. Those with aspirin sensitivity may experience allergic reactions including skin rashes, breathing difficulties, or anaphylaxis. Discontinue use if adverse symptoms develop and seek medical advice.

PubMed-compiled information sheet

This sheet was compiled from PubMed (NIH) abstracts using AI assistance. Every factual claim is cited to a real PubMed article (see the source list). It has not yet been human-reviewed — confirm with a healthcare provider before use.

Compiled from 30 PubMed articles · model: gemma4:31b

Summary

Populus nigra (black poplar) is a Eurasian tree species known for its ecological importance in riparian ecosystems and its potential therapeutic applications, particularly through its bud extracts [PMID:37784104, PMID:33138272].

Background

Populus nigra, also known as black poplar, is a species native to Eurasia and a member of the Salicaceae family [PMID:37784104, PMID:33138272]. It is an ecologically significant species in riparian ecosystems and is frequently used as a parent for cultivated poplar hybrids [PMID:37784104].

Traditional uses

Herbal species, including Populus nigra, have been traditionally used for treating inflammation, especially in cases involving reactive oxygen species (ROS) [PMID:35215227].

Active compounds

The buds of P. nigra contain resinous exudates rich in phenolic compounds (phenols, phenolic acids, and phenylpropanoids), terpenoids (mono and sesquiterpenoids), flavones (e.g., apigenol, crysin), flavanones (e.g., pinocembrin, pinostrobin), and caffeic/ferulic acids [PMID:33138272, PMID:42280141]. Specific bioactive phenolics identified include p-coumaric acid, pinocembrin, galangin, pinostrobin, pinobanksin, and chrysin [PMID:29414004]. The species also produces salicinoids, such as salicin [PMID:30788656, PMID:32098786].

Mechanism of action

P. nigra extracts have demonstrated the ability to inhibit nitrite production and ICAM-1 expression in TNF-α-stimulated endothelial cell cultures [PMID:35215227]. Additionally, the extract has shown inhibitory activity against the viability, migration, and invasion of NCI-H292 lung cancer cells [PMID:34866109].

Clinical evidence

Evidence DInflammation

A polyherbal formula containing P. nigra and Rosmarinus officinalis extracts exhibited antioxidant activity (50-85% scavenging at 1-10 mg/mL) and inhibited rat paw edema in vivo [PMID:35215227].

Evidence DLung Cancer

P. nigra extract exhibited inhibitory activity on the viability, migration, and invasion of NCI-H292 lung cancer cells in vitro [PMID:34866109].

Evidence DMicrobial Infections

Extracts of P. nigra buds showed a growth inhibitory effect against Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans [PMID:33919265].

Evidence summary

The current evidence is primarily based on in vitro studies, animal models, and phytochemical analyses (Level D). There are no human clinical trials or systematic reviews provided in the source material.

PubMed sources

1.PMID: 39224767 (2024) — The genome sequence of black poplar, Populus nigra subsp. betulifolia L., 1753 (Salicaceae). · Wellcome open research
2.PMID: 36980198 (2023) — Black Poplar (Populus nigra L.) Root Extracellular Trap, Structural and Molecular Remodeling in Response to Osmotic Stress. · Cells
3.PMID: 35215227 (2022) — Antioxidant-Anti-Inflammatory Evaluation of a Polyherbal Formula. · Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland)
4.PMID: 35160773 (2022) — Temperature, Time, and Interactions between Them in Relation to Colour Parameters of Black Poplar (Populus nigra L.) Thermally Modified in Nitrogen Atmosphere. · Materials (Basel, Switzerland)
5.PMID: 37784104 (2023) — RNAseq based variant dataset in a black poplar association panel. · BMC research notes

Populus nigra

Sources & Citations

Calculate a safe dose of Populus nigra

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Frequently asked questions

Summary

Background

Traditional uses

Active compounds

Mechanism of action

Clinical evidence

Evidence summary

PubMed sources

Government sources

Populus nigra

Sources & Citations

Calculate a safe dose of Populus nigra

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Copal

Ulmo

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Frequently asked questions

Summary

Background

Traditional uses

Active compounds

Mechanism of action

Clinical evidence

Evidence summary

PubMed sources

Government sources