Salix caprea (Salix caprea): Benefits, Dosage, Safety & Evidence

Frequently asked questions

How does Salix caprea work for pain relief?

Salix caprea bark contains salicin and salicortin, salicylate compounds that are metabolized in the liver to salicylic acid. This metabolite inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, reducing prostaglandin synthesis and producing anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. The mechanism is similar to aspirin, though conversion is slower and effects are milder. This explains its traditional use for pain, fever, and inflammatory conditions. Evidence level: C.

Can I take Salix caprea with blood thinners or NSAIDs?

Salix caprea should not be combined with anticoagulants (warfarin, heparin) or antiplatelet medications due to increased bleeding risk. The salicin content may enhance bleeding when taken with NSAIDs like ibuprofen or aspirin, also increasing gastrointestinal irritation. Those on blood thinners should avoid willow bark entirely. Always consult a healthcare provider before combining with prescription medications. Evidence level: C.

What is the recommended dosage for Salix caprea bark?

The typical adult dosage of Salix caprea dried bark is 1-3 grams prepared as a tea, taken up to three times daily. Liquid extracts are commonly dosed at 1-2 mL of a 1:5 tincture. Standardized preparations containing 60-120 mg of salicin equivalents are also available. Dosage should be adjusted based on individual tolerance and the specific preparation used. Evidence level: Traditional/C.

Is Salix caprea safe during pregnancy?

Salix caprea is considered unsafe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The salicin content crosses the placenta and may affect fetal development. Salicylates have been associated with complications including prolonged labor, increased bleeding risk during delivery, and potential effects on fetal cardiovascular development. Pregnant women should avoid all willow bark preparations, and those planning pregnancy should discontinue use. Evidence level: C.

What are the side effects of Salix caprea?

Common side effects include gastrointestinal irritation, nausea, and stomach discomfort due to tannins and salicylate compounds. Individuals with salicylate sensitivity or aspirin allergy should avoid Salix caprea entirely, as it may trigger allergic reactions including skin rashes, breathing difficulties, or anaphylaxis. Children under 16 should not use willow bark due to Reye's syndrome risk. Long-term use may cause kidney irritation. Evidence level: C.

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 29 PubMed articles · model: gemma4:31b

Summary

Salix caprea (goat willow) is a medicinal plant used traditionally for fever and inflammation [PMID:30000964, PMID:39596047], possessing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties [PMID:41996620, PMID:28963618].

Background

Salix caprea L. is a medicinal plant within the Salicaceae family [PMID:41996620]. It is also recognized as a pioneer woody species in ecological restoration and is studied for its phytoremediation potential regarding heavy metals [PMID:35842991, PMID:40822729].

Traditional uses

It is traditionally used to treat fever and inflammatory conditions [PMID:30000964, PMID:39596047].

Active compounds

The plant contains flavonoids (e.g., rutin, quercetin, naringenin, epicatechin), salicin derivatives, organic acids (e.g., gallic, chlorogenic, and vanillic acid), and terpenoids [PMID:41996620, PMID:34057484]. Specific phenolic extractives found in wood and knots include catechin, taxifolin, and dihydromyrcetin [PMID:12711137].

Mechanism of action

Pharmacological activities, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, are mediated by acting on targets such as COX-2 and AKT1 [PMID:41996620]. Bud extracts have been shown to inhibit voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs) and catecholamines secretion in mouse chromaffin cells [PMID:29157811].

Clinical evidence

Evidence DOxidative stress/Hepatotoxicity

Ethanol extract of flowers significantly scavenged DPPH, superoxide, hydrogen peroxide, and nitric oxide, and provided protection against FeNTA-induced hepatotoxicity in mice [PMID:16619350].

Evidence DSkin carcinogenesis

Pretreatment with Salix caprea inhibited phorbol ester-induced oxidative stress, DNA synthesis, and ornithine decarboxylase activity in murine skin [PMID:15120450].

Evidence DBacterial infections

Methanol and water twig extracts showed significant antibacterial effects against P. aeruginosa, S. aureus, and B. cereus [PMID:39596047].

Evidence BGastrointestinal Nematodes (Sheep)

Aqueous macerates of bark and leaves were found to be completely ineffective (0.1% efficacy) against gastrointestinal nematodes in sheep [PMID:34679067].

Safety & adverse effects

No specific adverse effects are listed for Salix caprea, though salicylate ingestion can lead to metabolic acidosis in infants via breastmilk [PMID:30000964].

Pregnancy & lactation

Willow bark is best avoided during breastfeeding because salicylic acid is excreted into breastmilk, and the excretion increases disproportionately as maternal dosage increases [PMID:30000964].

Evidence summary

The current evidence is primarily based on in vitro studies and animal models (Level D), demonstrating antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. One in vivo veterinary trial (Level B) showed no efficacy for parasite control in sheep.

PubMed sources

1.PMID: 30000964 (2006) — Absence of geographical structure of chloroplast DNA variation in sallow, Salix caprea L. · Heredity
2.PMID: 41996620 (2026) — Structural Characterization and Pharmacological Activity of Natural Compounds From Salix caprea L. · Chemistry & biodiversity
3.PMID: 15120450 (2004) — Salix caprea inhibits skin carcinogenesis in murine skin: inhibition of oxidative stress, ornithine decarboxylase activity and DNA synthesis. · Journal of ethnopharmacology
4.PMID: 39596047 (2024) — Polyphenol Analysis and Antibacterial Potentials of Twig Extracts of Salix aurita, S. pyrolifolia, and S. caprea Growing Naturally in Finland. · International journal of molecular sciences
5.PMID: 16619350 (2006) — Evaluation of antioxidant activity of Salix caprea flowers.

Salix caprea

Sources & Citations

Calculate a safe dose of Salix caprea