Prickly ash comes from the plant family of theRutaceaefamily.
That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.
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What Is Prickly Ash?
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Prickly ash is a shrub/tree native to Missouri.
The twigs of prickly ash have a strong smell, mimicking that of lemon peel.
In late summer the fruit ripens, turning from its original green color to reddish-brown.
Verywell / Anastasia Tretiak
Historically, many Native American tribes used prickly ash as a medicinal herb.
Also Known As
What Is Prickly Ash Used For?
Prickly ash is said to help improve rheumatism and alleviate joint pain by inhibiting hormones calledprostaglandinsthat stimulateinflammation.
Examples of alkaloids are morphine, quinine, and more.
Prickly ash also contains an alkamide that causes a numbing feeling on the tongue and mouth.
Prickly ash fruit is edible, as are the seeds, leaves, roots, and stems.
Prickly ash also has a rubefacient effect.
Further research is needed.
Despite the finding, there is no evidence that it has the same effect in humans.
Unlike some herbal remedies, it appears to have low toxicity on the liver.
Prickly ash has been known on rare occasions to cause allergy, including a severe whole-body reaction known asanaphylaxis.
Anaphylaxis is considered a medical emergency.
But this doesn’t mean that it is 100% safe because the herb has not been extensively studied.
Speak with your healthcare provider before taking any herbal remedy.
Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers should avoid the use of prickly ash as a precaution.
As a general rule, do not use more than the recommended dose indicated by the manufacturer.
The dried bark and powder are typically used to make teas or decoction.
Children should not take prickly ash.
Summary
Prickly ash is a shrub/tree thought by some to have powerful healing benefits.
Talk to a healthcare provider before using prickly ash or anotherherbal supplement.
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