What Are White Poplar Buds?
White poplar buds come from the white poplar (Populus alba), also called silver poplar or abele. It is a large, fast-growing tree native to southern and central Europe, North Africa and central Asia, easy to recognize by its leaves, which are dark green on top and bright silvery-white underneath.
The buds are collected in late winter and early spring, before they open. At this stage they are covered in a sticky, fragrant resin that gives them a warm, balsamic scent. The same kind of resin is what bees collect from poplar trees to make propolis.
Poplar buds have a long history in European folk tradition. They are steeped in hot water to make poplar bud tea, and they are infused in olive oil or other oils to make poplar bud oil, the traditional base of many homemade salves and balms. Herbalists also use them to make tinctures.
Like willow and aspen, poplar belongs to the Salicaceae family, and its buds naturally contain salicin and related plant compounds. Please read the safety notes before use.
Our white poplar buds contain only dried Populus alba buds. They are sold by weight, from small packs to bulk.
How to Use White Poplar Buds
- Poplar bud tea: Use 1 teaspoon (about 2 g) of buds per cup (8 fl oz / 250 ml). Pour over boiling water, cover and steep for 10 to 15 minutes, then strain.
- Infused oil: Fill a clean jar one third full with buds, cover completely with olive oil and keep in a warm place for 4 to 6 weeks, shaking now and then. Strain through cloth.
- Salves and balms: Gently warm the strained oil with beeswax (about 1 part wax to 5 parts oil) and pour into tins.
Safety
Poplar buds naturally contain salicylates. Do not use if you are allergic or sensitive to aspirin, salicylates, propolis or bee products, take blood-thinning medication, or are pregnant or nursing. Not for children. Test infused oils on a small area of skin first. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before internal use. Keep out of reach of children.
Read our full guide: How to prepare white poplar bud tea: our guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is poplar bud tea?
Poplar bud tea is a traditional European herbal tea made by steeping dried poplar buds in hot water. It has a resinous, balsamic aroma and a slightly bitter taste.
Are white poplar buds the same as balm of Gilead?
Not exactly. Balm of Gilead buds usually come from balsam poplar species, which are more resinous. White poplar buds are used in a similar way but have a milder resin.
When are poplar buds harvested?
They are collected in late winter and early spring, before the leaves open, when the buds are full of resin.
Why are the buds sticky?
The buds are naturally coated in resin. This is normal and is what gives poplar bud oil its aroma.
How should I store white poplar buds?
Keep them in an airtight glass jar in a cool, dark place. The resin can stick to plastic.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.