Article: After you have finished simmering the willow bark in water, pour the liquid into a cup (if you have one). Let the tea cool down for about 20 minutes so that you will not burn your mouth. After the tea has cooled, drink it slowly.  Take the willow bark tea with some food if possible. Salicylic acid has an irritating effect on the stomach. Be aware that it will take a little while before you feel the effects of the tea, so be prepared to wait a couple of hours after drinking the tea. The most common adverse effect of willow bark tea is mild to moderate stomach upset, but there are a few other things that you should be aware of before you decide to drink willow bark tea.  Taking too much willow bark can cause nausea, vomiting, and tinnitus, or a ringing in the ears. Drink one cup and wait several hours before taking another dose. Prolonged use of willow bark tea may cause increased bleeding and slow down blood clotting. Not everyone should use willow bark tea. Consider your age, medical condition, and other factors as well before deciding to use willow bark tea. Do not use willow bark tea if you fall into any of the following categories:  Children. Children under the age of 18 should not drink willow bark tea due to the risk of developing a disorder called Reye’s syndrome. This condition causes swelling in the liver and brain. Pregnant or nursing women. Pregnant and nursing women should not use willow bark tea. Taking medications. Salicylic acid interacts with several different types of medications, so do not use willow bark tea if you are taking any medications.

What is a summary?
Allow the willow bark tea to cool down a bit before drinking. Be aware of potential side effects. Know when to avoid using willow bark tea.