In Pain Dear In Pain, There are several different types of arthritis, each of which develops in a different way. Salicin and aspirin Over the centuries, many herbal medicines have been used for arthritis. The most commonly used herbs, such as willow bark, contain salicin, which is a chemical relative of aspirin. Aspirin was developed, in fact, through a search for a more effective and less toxic form of salicin.
Salicylates work by inhibiting the formation of prostaglandins.
Prostaglandins are family of chemicals produced in the body, some of which help promote the inflammation and pain that are associated with arthritis. Certain prostaglandins are also involved in clotting processes, which explains why aspirin and related chemicals can stop clot formation, for example the clots which lead to heart attacks. However, other prostaglandins are needed to protect the stomach lining from the acid the stomach makes to digest your food. This is why many people develop stomach upsets and bleeding when taking aspirin, and even more so when taking salicin. These drugs are sold without prescription, and are effective in reducing the pain of arthritis.