Aspen

• Overview
• Uses
• Side Effects
• Precautions
• Interactions
• Dosing

Aspen is a tree. The bark and leaf of the tree are used to make medicine.

Aspen is used in combination with other herbs for treating joint pain (rheumatism), prostate discomforts, back trouble (sciatica), nerve pain (neuralgia), and bladder problems.

How does it work?

Aspen contains a chemical that is very similar to aspirin. This chemical, known as salicin, may help reduce swelling (inflammation).

Insufficient Evidence to Rate Effectiveness for...

• Joint pain (rheumatism).
• Prostate discomforts.
• Back trouble.
• Nerve pain.
• Bladder problems.
• Other conditions.

More evidence is needed to rate the effectiveness of aspen for these uses.

Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database rates effectiveness based on scientific evidence according to the following scale: Effective, Likely Effective, Possibly Effective, Possibly Ineffective, Likely Ineffective, and Insufficient Evidence to Rate (detailed description of each of the ratings).

There isn't enough information to know if aspen is safe. Skin reactions, such as rashes, can occur if aspen comes in contact with the skin.

Don't drink alcohol while taking aspen. Alcohol can increase the risk and seriousness of bleeding in the stomach and intestines.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There is not enough reliable information about the safety of taking aspen if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Aspirin allergy: Aspen contains a chemical that is very similar to aspirin. This chemical, known as salicin, may cause a reaction in people who are allergic to aspirin.

Stomach ulcers: Aspen contains a chemical that is very similar to aspirin. This chemical, known as salicin, may make stomach ulcers worse.

Diabetes: Aspen contains a chemical that is very similar to aspirin. This chemical, known as salicin, may make diabetes worse.

Gout: Aspen contains a chemical that is very similar to aspirin. This chemical, known as salicin, may make gout worse.

A blood disorder such as hemophilia or hypoprothrombinemia: Aspen contains a chemical that is very similar to aspirin. This chemical, known as salicin, may make blood disorders worse.

Liver disease: Aspen contains a chemical that is very similar to aspirin. This chemical, known as salicin, may make liver disease worse.

Kidney disease: Aspen contains a chemical that is very similar to aspirin. This chemical, known as salicin, may make kidney disease worse.

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AspirinInteraction Rating: Moderate Be cautious with this combination.Talk with your health provider.

Aspen contains a chemical, salicin, which is similar to aspirin. There is some concern that taking aspen along with aspirin might increase the effects and side effects of aspirin.

The appropriate dose of aspen depends on several factors such as the user's age, health, and several other conditions. At this time there is not enough scientific information to determine an appropriate range of doses for aspen. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult your pharmacist or physician or other healthcare professional before using.