Poplar leaf buds, but not the bark, and leaves, are approved to treat wounds, burns, and hemorrhoids due to the antiphlogistic, antibacterial, analgesic, and wound healing effects. The active compounds are primarily salicylic acid glycosides and esters such as salicin and populin. Flavonoids including propolis and chrysin, zinc lignans, and the volatile oil caryophyllene are the other active compounds.
This herb is contraindicated in hypersensitivity to salicylates, peruvian balsam, and propolis. The cutaneous health hazards consist of allergic and irritant contact dermatitis. Poplar leaf buds are administered as topical semisolid extracts (3).