Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Prickly Ash Bark (Zanthoxylum americanum) has a longstanding history of traditional use in North America, particularly among Native American tribes and in early Western herbalism, for the symptomatic relief of colds and related respiratory ailments. It was commonly prepared as a tea, tincture, or decoction, with practitioners believing it could stimulate circulation, promote perspiration, and help the body "break" a fever or clear congestion. The bark was sometimes referred to as the "toothache tree" for its numbing effects, but it was also valued for its warming, diaphoretic actions, which were thought to be beneficial during colds.

However, modern scientific validation for these uses is extremely limited. While the bark contains various alkaloids, essential oils, and coumarins with mild antimicrobial or circulatory effects in vitro, there is insufficient clinical evidence to support its effectiveness specifically for treating or shortening the duration of the common cold. Most references to Prickly Ash Bark for this purpose are found in ethnobotanical texts and historical materia medica, rather than in peer-reviewed scientific research. As such, its reputation for cold relief is grounded in traditional herbal practice rather than validated by rigorous modern science.

More about Prickly Ash Bark
More about Colds (general)

Other ingredients used for Colds (general)

Other health conditions supported by Prickly Ash Bark

Products containing Prickly Ash Bark