Wisps in the Willows

Lukina sniffed at the tree, inhaling strongly as she noticed the slight smell of wintergreen as well as a noteable bitterness. She was pulled from her thoughts as she heard something coming towards her. She stumbled back, fur frizzed up in surprise as another pup appeared. Luki quickly noted the saber fangs and the pretty purple hues in the older girls coat. "Wow, I like your fangs!" He fur relaxed as the small cat explained that the other girl, Aris, was looking for some tutoring in healing. Lukina nearly bounced at the news. "Really? That's great! My name's Lukina and I'm learning about healing too. This is my friend, Magnolia. She teaches me when my cousin goes off hunting. She also knows a lot about healing… and not so nice plants." Rœkia had a nasty habit of threatening her with all kinds of strange poisons when she didn't behave. It was mean!

Magnolia cleared her throat. "You're welcome to join us. Since we're surrounded by so many willow trees I thought we'd discuss willow bark today. All willows can be used medicinally, but I'm focusing on the bark of the White Willow." The little fox reached out and patted the tree that they'd been looking at. "The bark of a willow tree can be chewed to help with pain. Though, you must be very careful in letting someone under a year old ingest it. It could cause a terrible reaction." She looked pointedly at Lukina, knowing the pup really enjoyed chewing on just about everything she could fit in her mouth.

"I'd like to have you girls do more than just listen to me prattle on. We're going to make a poultice for injuries like bruising, mild lacerations, and headaches. This can be done by mashing up the bark or leaves, or making a strong tea to place over an injury." The didn't have any fire as Wolf was with Rœkia hunting but they could do without for the purpose of this lesson. The little fox started digging around in a hide bundle that had been sent near the den entrance. She pulled out a ceramic bowl and brought it over to Aris. Lukina fetched her own.

"Go ahead and gather some of the bark and leaves. You can use your claws to scrape at the bark."