Background
- Ash has been used since the time of the Native Americans and the early settlers of the Americas. The Native Americans supposedly showed the medicinal properties of nearly every portion of the tree to the settlers. Traditionally, ash has been used to treat external cancerous growths, itching, parasitic worms, and fever. It has also been used as an antiseptic, diuretic, aphrodisiac, and appetite stimulant.
- Today, ash is still used for many conditions, including gouty arthritis, inflammation and pain. It may also be used as a general antimicrobial. It is commonly used in Europe in a variety of combination products. However, little human evidence exists, and only a few scientific studies have been carried out to support any of these claims.
References
Natural Standard developed the above evidence-based information based on a thorough systematic review of the available scientific articles. For comprehensive information about alternative and complementary therapies on the professional level, go to . Selected references are listed below.
- De Blay F, Bessot JC, Pauli G. [New aero-allergens]. Rev Pneumol.Clin 1996;52(2):79-87.
View Abstract - Enriquez Palomec O, Hernandez Chavez L, Sarrazola Sanjuan DM, et al. [Aeroallergens, skin tests and allergic diseases in 1091 patients]. Rev Alerg.Mex. 1997;44(3):63-66.
View Abstract - Ji W, Zhu XX, Tan WF, et al. Effects of Rebixiao granules on blood uric acid in patients with repeatedly attacking acute gouty arthritis. Chin J Integr.Med 2005;11(1):15-21.
View Abstract - Klein-Galczinsky C. [Pharmacological and clinical effectiveness of a fixed phytogenic combination trembling poplar (Populus tremula), true goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea) and ash (Fraxinus excelsior) in mild to moderate rheumatic complaints]. Wien.Med Wochenschr. 1999;149(8-10):248-253.
View Abstract - Kostova I. Fraxinus ornus L. Fitoterapia 2001;72(5):471-480.
View Abstract - Liccardi G, D'Amato M, D'Amato G. Oleaceae pollinosis: a review. Int Arch Allergy Immunol 1996;111(3):210-217.
View Abstract - Malo J, Cartier A. Occupational asthma caused by exposure to ash wood dust (Fraxinus americana). Eur.Respir.J. 1989;2(4):385-387.
View Abstract - Mothes N, Horak F, Valenta R. Transition from a botanical to a molecular classification in tree pollen allergy: implications for diagnosis and therapy. Int Arch Allergy Immunol 2004;135(4):357-373.
View Abstract - Pauli G, Bessot JC, Hutt N, et al. [Pollen environment and its evaluation]. Rev Pneumol.Clin 1997;53(6):317-322.
View Abstract - Vallverdu A, Garcia-Ortega P, Martinez J, et al. Mercurialis annua: characterization of main allergens and cross-reactivity with other species. Int Arch Allergy Immunol 1997;112(4):356-364.
View Abstract - von Kruedener S, Schneider W, Elstner EF. A combination of Populus tremula, Solidago virgaurea and Fraxinus excelsior as an anti-inflammatory and antirheumatic drug. A short review. Arzneimittelforschung 1995;45(2):169-171.
View Abstract - Williams PB. Critical analysis of studies concerning reports of respiratory sensitization to certain wood dusts. Allergy Asthma Proc 2005;26(4):262-267.
View Abstract