Ash
Natural Standard evidence-based flashcard. Copyright © 2008 (www.naturalstandard.com). Commercial distribution prohibited. This flashcard is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions. 		Image
While some complementary and alternative techniques have been studied scientifically, high-quality data regarding safety, effectiveness, and mechanism of action are limited or controversial for most therapies. Whenever possible, it is recommended that practitioners be licensed by a recognized professional organization that adheres to clearly published standards. In addition, before starting a new technique or engaging a practitioner, it is recommended that patients speak with their primary healthcare provider(s). Potential benefits, risks (including financial costs), and alternatives should be carefully considered. The below monograph is designed to provide historical background and an overview of clinically-oriented research, and neither advocates for or against the use of a particular therapy.

Summary:
The use of ash as an herbal remedy can be traced to Native Americans and the early settlers of the Americas. Traditionally, ash has been used in the treatment of external cancerous growths, as an antiseptic, for relief of itching, for expulsion of worms, as a remedy for fevers, as a diuretic, as an aphrodisiac, and as an appetite stimulant. Today, ash is still utilized for the treatment of a variety of ailments, including gouty arthritis, as a general antimicrobial, an anti-inflammatory, and an analgesic (pain reliever). However, little clinical evidence exists and only a few scientific studies have been carried out to support any of these claims.

Uses
These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.
Grade*
Arthritis (gouty) C
*Key to grades: A: Strong scientific evidence for this use; B: Good scientific evidence for this use; C: Unclear scientific evidence for this use; D: Fair scientific evidence against this use (it may not work); F: Strong scientific evidence against this use (it likely does not work).

Safety:
Avoid if allergic or hypersensitive to ash (Fraxinus species), its constituents, or to members of the Oleaceae family. Reviews note ash pollen allergic cross-reactivities with pollen from the Fagales order (birch, alder, hazel, hornbeam, oak, and chestnut), Scrophulariales order (olive, ash, plantain, privet, and lilac), Coniferales order (cedar, cypress, and pine), and fruits and vegetables. Use cautiously if sensitive to anticoagulants (blood thinners). Use cautiously if susceptible to hypouricemia (condition where the level of uric acid is below a certain threshold), including but not limited to hyperthyroidism, nephritis (inflamed kidneys), multiple sclerosis, and Fanconi Syndrome. Avoid if immunocompromised. Avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding.

Possible side effects:
Documentation of severe adverse effects other than allergic responses is lacking.

Possible interactions:
Allopurinol (lowers blood uric acid levels), analgesics (pain relievers), antibiotics, anticoagulants (blood thinners), anti-inflammatories, antioxidants, antivirals, immunomodulators, and herbs and supplements with similar effects.

Dosing:

Adults (18 years and older):
Not enough scientific data available.

Children (younger than 18 years):
Not enough scientific data available.
Natural Standard Monograph (www.naturalstandard.com)
Copyright © 2008 Natural Standard Inc. Commercial distribution or reproduction prohibited.
The information in this monograph is intended for informational purposes only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns. Information is based on review of scientific research data, historical practice patterns, and clinical experience. This information should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a qualified healthcare provider for specific questions regarding therapies, diagnosis and/or health conditions, prior to making therapeutic decisions.