Willow cotton
Willows have been used extensively by native peoples world-wide. The bark and branches were used for both the drill and hearth-board for a fire drill, and the "cotton" readily caught fire. The suppleness of the wood made it suitable for use in basket weaving, fish traps and string. Bark was boiled and the infusion used for a gargle for sore throats. Salicylic acid, found in the cambium and leaves is used today in the manufacture of aspirin.
Willow cotton
Willows have been used extensively by native peoples world-wide. The bark and branches were used for both the drill and hearth-board for a fire drill, and the "cotton" readily caught fire. The suppleness of the wood made it suitable for use in basket weaving, fish traps and string. Bark was boiled and the infusion used for a gargle for sore throats. Salicylic acid, found in the cambium and leaves is used today in the manufacture of aspirin.