Plant Details

Salix lasiolepis

Arroyo Willow

Ethnobotanical Use: Used to treat stomachache, sore throats, colds, diarrhea, and dandruff; the stems and bark are used in basket making, bow making, and fabric making; the inner bark is dried, ground into powder, and added to flour for bread making; the inner bark is also haemostatic and can be applied to cuts to help stop the bleeding. Willow contains salicin, a chemical similar to aspirin and responsible for willow's pain-releiving and anti-inflammatory effects dried stems and leaves are used for smudging; sage teas are used to ease sore throats, bleeding during menstration, and upset stomaches, as well as decrase sweating, salivation and lactation during weaning.