Balm of Gilead or the Cottonwood Tree!

Here is a jar of the cottonwood buds I am gathering to make Balm of Gilead. Yes, this is mentioned in the Bible, although it isn't the same plant. These resinous buds contain salicin, the same metabolite we get from willow bark. This is a natural, non-narcotic pain reliever and anti-inflammatory. The precursor to aspirin. It makes a lovely balm to relieve minor aches and pains, hence the name. It's been windy here and cottonwood branches are brittle so plenty of bud-filled twigs have blown down!