Winter’s bark

Winter's bark refers to both an aromatic bark with tonic and stimulant properties and an evergreen tree, Drimys winteri. This tree, native to South America and Mexico, yields the bark and a light, soft wood similar to basswood. The Drimys genus, to which D. winteri belongs, is characterized by evergreen, aromatic foliage.12

The Winteraceae family includes aromatic trees and shrubs, many of which have medicinal qualities. Drimys winteri is a notable species within this family, growing up to 15 meters (50 feet) tall. Its bark was historically used to prevent scurvy. The leaves of many Winteraceae species have a peppery taste that deters browsing animals.3