Last week brought Junuary sunshine and warmth to northern California, and golden buds on golden willows in mountain meadows.
Salix (the genus for nearly 400 willow species ) are a common sight in wetlands and waterways around the northern hemisphere. You may be more familiar with these plants from more than stream-side jaunts, though. Their bark contains a medicinal compound that soothes aches and pains. That compound, salicylic acid, is a common ingredient in modern painkillers.
that is very interesting, Max. Thanks again. I had a niceb few days with your Dad last weekend when he flew out here for the weekend.—Paupau