Abstract image produced from merged polarised light micrographs of salicin (formerly salicine) and sucrose. Salicin is obtained mainly from the bark of poplar and willow trees and was at one time used as an analgesic. It is used in small quantities as a food preservative and as an antiseptic in toothpaste. Sucrose (commonly known as table sugar) is a disaccharide of glucose and fructose which is produced by plants. Over consumption of sugars is linked to obesity and diabetes.