Indian willow
Salix tetrasperma
Salix tetrasperma, a plant native to certain regions of Asia and the Middle East, has not been traditionally used in any known medical or folk practices. Scientific research on its potential uses is limited, but studies have focused on its propagation, nutritional value, mechanical properties, and chemical composition. An efficient protocol for in vitro propagation using cytokinin mT and auxin NAA has been developed, showing promising results with high shoot proliferation and rooting rates. Additionally, partial replacement of berseem hay with Salix tetrasperma improved nutrient utilization and growth parameters in rabbits without any reported adverse health effects. The mechanical properties of its wood were enhanced through thermal modification at 140°C, though higher temperatures led to reduced holocellulose content and mechanical strength. Notably, a modified isolation approach identified 12 new friedelane-type triterpenoids in the barks of Salix tetrasperma. To date, no major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded for this plant.
- Best evidence
- B
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- Thermal modification of Salix tetrasperma wood at 140°C enhanced tensile strength, while higher temperatures reduced holocellulose content and mechanical properties.
- The study successfully isolated 12 new friedelane-type triterpenoids from Salix tetrasperma using a combined HSCCC and HPLC approach.
- The study found that a combination of 5.0 µM meta-topolin and 0.5 µM NAA enhanced shoot proliferation and rooting in Salix tetrasperma, with 97% rooting success and 86% survivability post-transfer.
- Partial replacement of berseem hay with Salix tetrasperma improved nutrient utilization and growth parameters in rabbits without adverse health effects.
Frequently asked questions
What is Indian willow?
Indian willow (Salix tetrasperma) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Indian willow?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Indian willow; the strongest carries evidence grade B. For example: Thermal modification of Salix tetrasperma wood at 140°C enhanced tensile strength, while higher temperatures reduced holocellulose content and mechanical properties.
How strong is the evidence for Indian willow?
The strongest finding for Indian willow carries evidence grade B — moderate evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Indian willow safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Indian willow in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Indian willow interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Indian willow in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
Is Indian willow a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Replacement of berseem hay by Salix tetrasperma on physiological performance of New Zealand White rabbits under subtropical conditions of Egypt. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Effect of meta-Topolin on morphological, physiochemical, and molecular dynamics during in vitro regeneration of Salix tetrasperma Roxb. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Integrated strategy by combining preparative HSCCC with HPLC-UV-QDa for efficient isolation of specific friedelane-type triterpenoids from Salix tetrasperma. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Enhanced strength and chemical stability of Salix tetrasperma wood through thermal modification. literature abstract metadata