The willow was important to healers for remedies used against chills & aches & pains by making infusions & compresses of the inner bark. Gypsies make a bitter drink from the bark to help ease headaches, 'flu & rheumatism.  The active ingredient is salicylic acid, & interestingly, the Celtic name for willow is 'saille'.In 1899, acetylsalicylic acid was taken from willow & made into a medicine called 'aspirin'.

Watery willow reminds us to let go at times & surrender to the watery world of the emotions, to help us reach a deeper understanding of our inner selves & innermost feelings. 

To the ancient Celts, the willow was the tree of enchantment & mysteries.  Being in the company of willows was said to promote & increase psychic & intuitive powers.  The Celts also believed that sitting in a grove of willows was considered SO magical that it was a place to access the other worlds by meditation,& enhance their visionary skills, improving inspiration & clarity of mind.  Willow links here to the mystery & intuitive powers associated with the tarot - these cards are also very useful tools for meditation.

.Amongst several other goddesses associated with willow, Hecate the moon goddess is an important one.  She presided over the dark side of moon magic & haunted crossroads & tombs.  She was a powerful goddess of willow & water.  Here, willow is associated with the planets of astrology, especially the moon, which in astrology represents your inner self & intuition. 

Traditionally, willow leaves have been used to attract love