DESCRIPTION : Quaking aspen is a small deciduous tree that grows30-40 feet, sometimes up to 100 feet tall. The bark is whitish and smoothon young trees, turning brownish and rough, especially at the base, on oldertrees. The silhouette of this tree is narrow and symmetrical. Quaking aspenis found in open woodlands and on hillsides throughout the cooler regionsof 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 tremuloidesturn bright yellow or golden in fall. The petioles of the leaves are so andflat 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 reach20 years of age.

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

PARTS OF PLANT USED : The leaves, bark, and buds of Populustremuloides are used. Collect the bark in spring. Gather it from prunedbranches or branches that have fallen to the ground. This has bitter taste butno odor.

PLANT ANALYSIS : The bark of Populus tremuloides contains salicin,an aspirin like substance. It is considered anti-inflammatory, analgesic, andslightly sedative. Salicin breaks down in the body to salicylic acid, asubstance 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 forintermittent fevers. It has been used as a diuretic, and as a treatment forgonorrhea. An infusion of the bark is said to be helpful for chronicdiarrhea, 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 excessivemenstrual flow; poultices made of the root for cuts and wounds; and a teamade of the inner bark for venereal disease, stomach pain, urinaryailments, worms, colds, and fevers. The leaf buds may be used in a salvefor colds, coughs, and irritated nostrils. The tincture of the bark containssalicin and is a remedy for fevers, rheumatism, arthritis, and diarrhea.
The buds are slightly sticky and can be made into tea or salve for internalor 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 1quart boiling water.
As an Extract : 1/4 to 1 teaspoon 3 times a day, as directed by health careprofessional. 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 orspells 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 NativeAmerican 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 adecoction as a general tonic.
The bark of young trees was used in poultices for cuts and wounds by theOjibwa.
The Potawatomi would burn the bark and mix the ashes with lard. Theywould apply this salve to the wounds of horses.

LORE : The Ojibwa had a special use for aspen. "A boy who passedthrough the critical stage without fasting and obtaining a vision becameill likewise, for his soul and shadow lacked the guidance and could notwork harmoniously with his body, so that blood failed to flow freelythrough his veins. A tonic brewed with poplar bark would then stimulatethe 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