Description

Safsaf willow in fog near Villiers.

 Therina Groenewald: Safsaf willow in fog –  professional photographer.

This plant is much used in traditional medicine. It can be used to stabilise stream banks. Wood is soft and has a relatively low density. It can be used for carving and to make household implements as well as musical instruments.

Sticks can be used to light fire by friction and young tree branches are used to make baskets. Leaves make good fodder. They can be used to make tea which acts as a mild laxative.

The leaves and bark contain salicin which is an antipyretic and anti-inflammatory agent. This is where Aspirin was originally extracted and gives the leaves a bitter taste. Safer drugs with less side-effects are now available. Leaves are browsed and used for fowl-food. Propagation is by seeds and cuttings. Large cuttings can also be used.