The Native North Americans originally understood the use of prickly ash as a remedy for toothache and for rheumatism. During the early 19th Century Americans used the prickly ash to boost the circulatory system. Subsequently, it was found to be useful in the treatment of arthiritis. Between the time period 1820 and 1926, the prickly ash bark was earned a place in the Pharmacopoeia of the United States.

Incidentally, most alternative herbal medicine practioners in the West considered the prickly ash as the chief medication for the treatment of arthritic and rheumatic problems. In addition the bark of the prickly ash also helps in inducing flow of blood to stiff joints, providing additional oxygen and nourishment to the affected area. It also helps in removing the waste materials from that particular region of the body.

The prickly ash is an effective remedy in the treatment of intermittent claudication (cramping pains) and Raynaud’s disease. It enhances the blood circulation in both conditions, which are known to narrow the arteries in the affected limbs preventing adequate blood flow to the hand and leg muscles.

Other therapeutic uses of prickly ash include effective remedy for disorders such as dry mouth, tooth decay and toxic shock syndrome caused by toxins. In addition, prickly ash or medications prepared with the bark or berries of the tree are useful in relieving gas, curing diarrhea and toning up or neutralizing the digestive system. Externally, prickly ash is also applied to cure leg ulcers and insistent pelvic inflammatory disorder.

Native American tribes along the eastern coast revered prickly ash for its efficacy in treating disorders such as stomach upsets, painful throats, throbbing muscles and skin infections. Additionally the bark was used to induce secretion of saliva and cure various other ailments. During the end of the 19th century, practicing herbalalists in the United States carried on with the conventional use of the prickly ash as the key medication to treat digestive disorders, reinforce the nervous system as well as cure cholera. Also used the bark of prickly ash to treat rheumatic conditions. Considered to be an alternative in traditional herbal medication, the prickly ash is known to improve the body’s aptitude to combat as well as recover from all kinds of physical problems.