DESCRIPTION : Quaking aspen is a small deciduous tree that grows 30-40 feet, sometimes up to 100 feet tall. The bark is whitish and smooth on young trees, turning brownish and rough, especially at the base, on older trees. The silhouette of this tree is narrow and symmetrical. Quaking aspen is found in open woodlands and on hillsides throughout the cooler regions of North America.

The leaves are broadly ovate, finely-toothed and 1 1/3 to 2 inches long, and have fine hairs on their margins. The leaves of Populus tremuloides turn bright yellow or golden in fall. The petioles of the leaves are so and flat that they twist and bend in the slightest breeze, as if they are "quaking".

Aspens are short-lived trees, even properly cared-for aspens may not reach 20 years of age.

CULTIVATION : The quaking aspen likes any type of soil, but does best in well-drained, loamy soil. This tree may be propagated by layering or cuttings.

PARTS OF PLANT USED : The leaves, bark, and buds of Populus tremuloides are used. Collect the bark in spring. Gather it from pruned branches or branches that have fallen to the ground. This has bitter taste but no odor.

PLANT ANALYSIS : The bark of Populus tremuloides contains salicin, an aspirin like substance. It is considered anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and slightly sedative. Salicin breaks down in the body to salicylic acid, a substance related to active ingredient in aspirin.

MEDICINAL ACTION : Quaking aspen is considered tonic, stimulant, febrifuge, diuretic, anodyne, anticoagulant, anti-inflammatory, antirheumatic, antiseptic, astringent, bitter, and a cholagogue.

MEDICINAL USES : The chief use of Populus tremuloides is for intermittent fevers. It has been used as a diuretic, and as a treatment for gonorrhea. An infusion of the bark is said to be helpful for chronic diarrhea, and a safe substitute for Peruvian bark.

The traditional uses for quaking aspen include: stomach or liver disorders, arthritis, benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH), cancer, common cold, cystitis, debility, diarrhea, dysentery, dyspepsia, fever, fibrositis, flatulence, inflammation, rheumatism, and rheumatoid arthritis.

Native American uses of this plant include: root bark tea for excessive menstrual flow; poultices made of the root for cuts and wounds; and a tea made of the inner bark for venereal disease, stomach pain, urinary ailments, worms, colds, and fevers. The leaf buds may be used in a salve for colds, coughs, and irritated nostrils. The tincture of the bark contains salicin and is a remedy for fevers, rheumatism, arthritis, and diarrhea.

The buds are slightly sticky and can be made into tea or salve for internal or external use. Boil the buds in olive oil or lard to make a soothing salve.

Aspen has been used externally as a wash for inflammations, cuts scratches, wounds and burns.

A tea may be used for coughs or gargle for sore throat.

DOSAGE : To make a decoction of the bark use 1 ounce of dried bark to 1 quart boiling water.

As an Extract: 1/4 to 1 teaspoon 3 times a day, as directed by health care professional. Always take with plenty of juice or with water at mealtime, unless instructed otherwise.

MAGICKAL USE : Use the leaves, bark or buds of this tree in rituals or spells concerning money or protection of property.

Quaking aspen has also been used in the creation of flying ointments.

HISTORY : Quaking aspen is a highly revered medicinal plant by Native American peoples.

The Penobscot used the liquid of steeped bark for colds.

Root of aspen was combined with balsam poplar and steeped by the Chippewa. It was used to prevent premature births.

The Algonkian used the leaves in medicine for infants, and the roots in a decoction as a general tonic.

The bark of young trees was used in poultices for cuts and wounds by the Ojibwa.

The Potawatomi would burn the bark and mix the ashes with lard. They would apply this salve to the wounds of horses.

LORE : The Ojibwa had a special use for aspen. "A boy who passed through the critical stage without fasting and obtaining a vision became ill likewise, for his soul and shadow lacked the guidance and could not work harmoniously with his body, so that blood failed to flow freely through his veins. A tonic brewed with poplar bark would then stimulate the flow of blood, and atune the boy to receive his vision."

Quaking aspen is said to facilitate astral projection.

Plant Populus tremuloides in your garden to protect against thieves.

Place leaf under tongue if you wish to become eloquent.