Willow bark has been around for centuries.  There are records from Hippocrates time that patients who suffered from fever and inflammation were told to chew on the bark.  It is commonly used to treat pain, especially low back pain and osteoarthritis, but also, inflammatory conditions like bursitis and tendinitis.  The ability to help with pain and inflammation is because willow bark contains salicin, which was used to develop aspirin and has the same qualities.  Along with this attribute, it also contains antioxidants, fever reducing abilities, antiseptic and immune boosting properties.  Researchers from the University of Maryland Medical Center believe that Willow Bark reduces pain and inflammation (but not fever) just as effectively as aspirin but at a lower dosage.