Black poplar, Canadian poplar, European aspen, poplar bud (balm of Gilead buds), Populi cortex et folium, P. gemma, Populus alba, P. gileadensis, P. nigra, P. tremuloides, quaking aspen, trembling poplar, white poplar
Poplar is obtained from the bark and leaves of Populus species. It contains essential oil, flavonoids, phenol glycosides, and salicylate glycosides. The volatile oil has expectorant properties. Leaves of P.alba may contain up to 6% of glycosides and esters that yield salicylic acid. Populus bark contains about 2% salicylate compounds, such as salicortin and salicin. Salicylate compounds contribute to the herb’s analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic properties. Caffeic acid, found in poplar buds, provides antibacterial properties. Zinc lignins Contained in poplar may have a beneficial effect on micturition in prostatic hyperplasia. Poplar is available as buds, ointment, extract, powder, and dried bark (in combination products).
Reported uses
Poplar is used to treat pain, rheumatism, and micturition complaints in benign prostatic hyperplasia. It’s used topically for superficial skin injuries, external he. morrhoids, frostbite, and sunburn. Poplar is also used as an antiseptic and to stimulate wound healing. It’s used for respiratory tract infections and as a gargle for laryngitis.
Administration
- Dried bark: 1 to 4 g, or as a tea by mouth three times a day
- Ground drug and galenic preparations of Populi cortex et folium: As directed; maximum, 10 g daily
- Liquid bark extract (1:1 in 25% alcohol): 1 to 4 ml (20 to 80 gtt) by mouth three times a day
- Topical, semisolid, or ointment preparations containing 5 g of drug or 20% to 30% of drug: Apply as directed.
Hazards
Adverse effects associated with poplar include depression of clotting factors and rash. When poplar is used with antiarthritics and aspirin, there is a possibility of increased bleeding time. Monitor patient for signs of bleeding. Advise patient to avoid using together. poplar may reduce iron absorption if used with feosol and other iron supplements. There may be an increase in bleeding time If poplar is used with warfarin and other anticoagulants. Monitor patient’s laboratory values.
Patients hypersensitive. to poplar products salicylates, or Peruvian balsam shouldn’t take this herb. Herb should be used with caution by patients with heart disease or a history of bleeding disorders.
Clinical considerations
- Closely monitor prothrombin time and International Normalized Ratio if patient takes aspirin, an arthritis medicine, or an anticoagulant.
- Tell patient to stop using topical preparation if it causes a rash or skin irritation.
- Inform patient that poplar contains aspirin-like compounds that can increase the risk of bleeding when taken orally with other drugs.
- Advise patient not to take iron supplements with poplar tea.
- Tell patient to remind prescriber and pharmacist of any herbal and dietary supplement that he is taking when obtaining a new prescription.
- Advise patient to consult his health care provider before using an herbal preparation because a treatment with proven efficacy may be available.
Research summary
The concepts behind the use of poplar and the claims made regarding its effects haven’t yet been validated scientifically.