Poplar buds in monastic medicine

Poplars (Populus) are a genus of plants within the willow family. The more than 40 species are found worldwide in temperate climate zones. Among the best-known representatives in this country are the black poplar (Populus nigra) and the white poplar (Populus alba), whose buds have been used for medicinal purposes since ancient times. However, the former is becoming increasingly rare in pure form because important habitats of the poplar disappear due to river straightening, and hybrids are becoming more dominant.

Poplars prefer to settle in moist locations. Like their related willows, they grow mainly along streams and rivers, where they can withstand occasional flooding.

Poplar buds contain populin, salicin, essential oil, tannic acid, gallic acid, and resin as ingredients.

Poplars produce salicin to protect themselves from predators such as insects. In humans, it acts as an anti-inflammatory and pain reliever, similar to aspirin. The ingredient is also said to have antibacterial and wound-healing properties. The healing effects of poplar buds have been used by people since ancient times and were used to treat all kinds of inflammations. Hildegard von Bingen recommended a decoction of poplar buds and bark for superficial injuries and hemorrhoids.

Initial studies also suggest an effect on joint and rheumatic pain. Frostbite and sunburn are also said to be well alleviated with poplar buds. For these external applications, a tea for washing or baths or a corresponding Popolium ointment can be prepared from poplar buds.

When taken internally, poplar buds as tea are said to fight inflammation. In traditional medicine, they were also used for bladder infections as well as colds and fever.

No other tree shoots up as quickly in our native regions as the poplar. The deciduous plant reaches between 30 and 45 meters high. The black poplar forms a wide crown with leaves that have serrated edges.

In spring, poplar buds grow at the tips and branches of the tree, from which the young leaves develop. The buds consist of several scale leaves. They have a strong balsamic scent and are covered with sticky resin. Poplar buds are suitable for harvesting for medicinal purposes as long as they are still closed.

The resin that covers the poplar buds is also collected by bees and processed into propolis, the sealing resin with which they seal their beehives.