Abstract
Athletic performance is often hindered by the detrimental effects of delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). DOMS is discomfort that occurs within 8-24hrs and peaks within 24-72 hrs. following unaccustomed and or high-intensity exercise. White willow bark (WWB) is a nutritional supplement that is believed to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties but without the risk of adverse GI effects. PURPOSE: The purpose of this investigation was to determine if WWB attenuates DOMS soreness and preserves athletic performance. METHODS: Twenty-five healthy adults were randomly assigned to 798 mg oral WWB (salicin) per day (n=11) or placebo (n=14) for 5 days following a lower body resistance training session aimed to induce DOMS. The training consisted of 5x10 lunges at an additional 40% body weight (BW) and 3x fatigue leg press at 75%BW. Assessment included rating of DOMS, vertical jump height, ground contact time, peak velocity and peak power. All variables were measured immediately following exercise, day 3 (72hrs), and day 6 (post-supplementation). RESULTS: Both groups experienced similar DOMS without any significant difference over the time of observation. No differences (p >.05) were found for either group for any of the testing variables. A significant main effect of time (p < 0.05) for jump height and ground contact time was observed. Baseline jump height was significantly higher than both immediately (WWB: 27.06 ± 13.15cm; Placebo 28.01 ± 11.4cm) and 72 hrs. (WWB: 31.43 ± 11.45cm; Placebo: 30.58 ± 7.45cm) following exercise. Ground contact time significantly (p < 0.05) longer at all time points compared to baseline. A significant main effect of time (p < 0.05) for peak velocity was observed. Baseline peak velocity was significantly higher than both immediate (WWB: 1.92 ± 0.50m/s; Placebo: 1.94 ± 0.42m/s) and 72 hrs. (WWB: 1.95 ± 0.45m/s; Placebo: 2.19 ± 0.36m/s). CONCLUSION: WWB ability to enhance recovery and maintain athletic performance following a damaging bout of exercise remains inconclusive. Additional research is warranted using longer supplementation time and perhaps pre-supplementation prior to inducing DOMS.
Recommended Citation
Cheshier, Brandie C.; Jacobson, Bert H.; and Shireman, John
(2026)
"The Effect of White Willow Bark on Athletic Performance Recovery Following Resistance Training- A Pilot Study,"
International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings: Vol. 2:
Iss.
18, Article 194.
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.wku.edu/ijesab/vol2/iss18/194