NAPLESILLUSTRATED.COM | SEPTEMBER 2019 117
TREE BARK EXTRACTS, HISTORICALLY USED TO TREAT MYRIAD
HEALTH CONCERNS, HAVE BECOME WIDELY AVAILABLE IN VITA-
MIN SHOPS AND DRUG STORES. HERE, WE COVER THREE OF THE
MOST POTENT AND BENEFICIAL.
White willow bark contains salicin,
which is similar to aspirin. It has been
used for pain relief and to reduce
inflammation for centuries. “When
you use natural, not-synthesized forms
[of medicines] like aspirin, you have other inert
chemicals that modulate how they work,” says
Deborah J. Post, an ARNP at Wellbridges
Health Center in Bonita Springs (wellbridges.com). These substances may re-
duce side effects, thereby making this bark easier on the gut. However, Post
cautions that those with aspirin allergies shouldn’t use willow bark products.Magnolia bark is believed to help detoxify the body, aid
weight loss, and protect against allergic reactions. It’s been
used to ease anxiety, reduce gingivitis, treat menstrual cramps,
and improve respiratory health. While magnolia bark’s phar-
macological benefits are broad, Andrea Romero, a licensed
doctor of oriental medicine with IntMed Integrative Medicine in Naples
(intmednaples.com), primarily relies on it to improve digestion, which can
lead to less bloating and better sleep, mood, and immunity. However, she
does not prescribe just one herb or extract by itself. Using a combination of
natural remedies minimizes the chance of side effects, she says.When mixed with water, slippery elm bark creates a therapeu-
tic material known as mucilage. This soothing demulcent can
reduce irritation. According to Post, studies have shown slippery
elm can help treat symptoms associated
with inflammatory bowel diseases and upper
respiratory ailments, as well as coughs and
heartburn. However, she notes that mucilage
could lessen how much medicine the body
can absorb, thereby decreasing its effective-
ness. To be safe, use it at least one hour after
taking another medication by mouth.Grow on TREES
NATURAL REMEDIES
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