Salix nigra (Willow) bark extract is obtained from Salix nigra, commonly known as Black Willow (a plant belonging to the botanical family Salicaceae). It is a tree species native to the eastern United States. The bark extract of this tree has been valued for its therapeutic properties for centuries, especially for its salicylic acid content, which has notable benefits for the skin.

Name breakdown and function of the components

• Salix nigra - This is the scientific name for the black willow, a willow species native to North America.
• Willow - The tree is known for its medicinal properties for centuries.
• Bark - Refers to the tree's bark. The bark of willow contains salicin, a precursor to acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin).
• Extract - Indicates that the product is a concentration of some components of the bark.

Description and function of the raw materials used in production

• Salix nigra bark - The primary source of salicin, which has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
• Solvent (like water or ethyl alcohol) - Used to extract salicin and other beneficial compounds from the bark.

Summary of the extraction process step by step

• Collection and preparation of the bark - Bark is harvested from trees and cleaned from impurities.
• Shredding - The bark is shredded into smaller pieces to increase the surface area in contact with the solvent.
• Extraction - The shredded bark is soaked in the solvent for a specified period, allowing salicin to diffuse into the solvent.
• Filtration - Once extraction is complete, the solution is filtered to remove any residual solid particles.
• Evaporation - The solvent is then evaporated, leaving behind the concentrated Salix nigra extract.
• Stabilization and preservation - The extract may be further treated or stabilized for long-term storage.

What it is for and where

Cosmetics

Skin protectant. It creates a protective barrier on the skin to defend it from harmful substances, irritants, allergens, pathogens that can cause various inflammatory conditions. These products can also improve the natural skin barrier and in most cases more than one is needed to achieve an effective result.

CAS   84650-64-6

EC number   283-522-3

Commercial applications

Cosmetic and Skincare Products: It's commonly used in products for acne-prone skin, toners, exfoliants, and lotions due to its exfoliating and anti-inflammatory properties.

Anti-aging Products: Given its ability to promote cell turnover through exfoliation, it can be found in anti-aging products.

Traditional Medicine: Historically, it has been used as a pain reliever and fever reducer, similar to the use of aspirin.

Properties

Exfoliating: Contains natural salicylates that help to exfoliate the skin, promoting a brighter, even-toned appearance.

Anti-inflammatory: Assists in reducing skin inflammation and irritation.

Antibacterial: Can help combat acne-causing bacteria.

Studies

Salix nigra contains salicylic acid and its derivative salicin and is believed to be an interesting source of biologically active compounds for applications in food, drugs or cosmetics, in particular, antioxidant activity has been detected (1).

Another study clearly indicates the potential of Salix nigra as an anti-arthritic agent (2).

References_____________________________________________________________________

(1) Ostolski M, Adamczak M, Brzozowski B, Wiczkowski W. Antioxidant Activity and Chemical Characteristics of Supercritical CO2 and Water Extracts from Willow and Poplar. Molecules. 2021 Jan 21;26(3):545. doi: 10.3390/molecules26030545. 

(2) Sharma S, Sahu D, Das HR, Sharma D. Amelioration of collagen-induced arthritis by Salix nigra bark extract via suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress. Food Chem Toxicol. 2011 Dec;49(12):3395-406. doi: 10.1016/j.fct.2011.08.013.