Compound Monograph
Salicortin
Salicortin is a salicyl alcohol glycoside from willow bark and a natural precursor of salicin and salicylic acid.
Classification
Salicortin is a phenolic glycoside (salicylate), part of the phenolics class. Antioxidant compounds built around one or more phenol rings — the flavonoids, tannins, phenolic acids, coumarins, and pigments behind much of a plant's protective chemistry.
Where Does It Come From? (3)
Salicortin is a naturally occurring phenolic glycoside (salicylate), found in Willow, Poplar and 1 other source. It is well tolerated orally (low toxicity).
Research & Evidence
Salicortin is a salicyl alcohol glycoside present in willow and poplar bark, where it occurs alongside salicin. On processing and digestion it can break down to yield salicin and ultimately salicylic acid, so it forms part of the same group of compounds that gives willow bark its traditional anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving reputation. It is studied mostly as one component of standardised willow-bark extracts rather than on its own.
Toxicity & Safety
As a willow-bark constituent that contributes to overall salicylate content, salicortin is regarded as low in toxicity at the levels found in herbal preparations, but it shares the general cautions of the salicylate class, including avoidance by those sensitive to aspirin.