Natural Herbs Containing Salicylate Compounds

Salicylates are water-soluble (meaning that they dissolve in water) compounds that have anti-inflammatory and pain-killing properties. Salicylates occur naturally in plants, but these natural salicylates have become less commonly used for pain relief since the creation of acetylsalicylic acid, more commonly called aspirin. There are several plants often used in natural medicine that contain salicylates.

Willow

• Willow is one of the most commonly used herbs containing salicylates. This plant has been used since antiquity to relieve fevers, lower inflammation and to help reduce pain. The frequent use of willow plants for these ailments led to the creation of acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin). While use of willow has largely been replaced by the use of aspirin, willow does not cause the stomach pains and hemorrhaging that aspirin can sometimes cause.

Cottonwood

• Cottonwoods (poplars), also called "Balm in Gilead," have long been used as an expectorant for lung problems, to treat laryngitis, and to ease arthritis and sore muscles and joints. The biblical term "Balm in Gilead" derives from the medicinal use of this plant.

Meadowsweet

• Meadowsweet, also called spirea, is traditionally used for stomach complaints. It can be used as an antacid. Meadowsweet tea is also used for reduction of fever, aches, arthritis and other illnesses that involve swelling or minor pain. This plant is particularly useful because, like willow, it avoids the common stomach pain that can come from overuse of aspirin.

Birch

• Birch leaf also contains salicylates and is often used in alternative medicine for kidney and bladder problems, specifically to break up kidney stones. It is also used to reduce inflammation in arthritis and treat the minor aches and pains of flu and colds.