- Region
- North America
- Origin
- North America, Europe, Asia, Africa (North)
- Other names
- Trilpopulier, Esp, Amerikaanse ratelpopulier
North America · Herb · № 192
Populus tremuloides
Herb · North America
Aspen
Populus tremuloides
Traditionally attributed effects: astringent, fever-reducing, tonic, anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving (salicylates); restores the sensitive bladder (incontinence), calms the bowels in stress diarrhoea, heals wounds, lowers fever, relieves headache.
Safety notes
Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Cautions by tradition (1)
- Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) medicine: Contains salicylates: not with aspirin sensitivity.
Preparation
Decoction of the bark: 1 tsp per cup, 12–15 min covered, 1–3 cups a day; tincture 1 dropperful 1–3 times a day; use for 12–20 weeks for a lasting effect.
Use in traditions
The bitter bark of the quaking aspen contains salicin, the same precursor of aspirin as willow bark. Indigenous peoples such as the Cree and Ojibwe used the inner bark for fever and pain and as food in times of scarcity. In Western herbalism the bark is used for rheumatism and a sensitive bladder. In herbal magic associated with prosperity, communication, exorcism and purification.
Applications
Use by tradition
How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.
Western herbalism
Attributed effects
Astringent, fever-reducing, tonic, anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving (salicylates); restores the sensitive bladder (incontinence), calms the bowels in stress diarrhoea, heals wounds, lowers fever, relieves headache.
Preparation and amount
Decoction of the bark: 1 tsp per cup, 12–15 min covered, 1–3 cups a day; tincture 1 dropperful 1–3 times a day; use for 12–20 weeks for a lasting effect.
Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) medicine
Attributed effects
Against worms in children and for cramps; for a baby that cries without being ill.
Preparation and amount
Scrape bark from young branches and let it stand in water.
Caution: Contains salicylates: not with aspirin sensitivity.
Folklore and herbal magic
Symbolic meanings from folk use and modern herbal magic. These are handed-down associations, not effects.
Prosperity, communication, exorcism, purification.