Willows are a widely distributed deciduous shrub found primarily in riparian zones. They are part of the genus Salix. Willows have many traditional uses among Native Americans. The flexible branches are used as building material, smaller twigs & bark are utilized in basket making, and the bark & leaves have medicinal properties.
A traditional medicine for over 3500 years, willow bark was used to relieve pain and reduce fever. In more modern times, the active ingredient was discovered and named salicin, which was soon refined into salicylic acid and compounded into the new miracle drug – aspirin.
Among the Navajo, very specific species of Salix are used for ceremonial purposes.
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