Szechuan Pepper or Prickly ash bark is chiefly comprised of a volatile oil and alkaloids. The volatile oil is contained in the fruit and is believed to build the body's ability to fight and recover from all forms of illnesses as per traditional practitioners of herbal medicine.

When used medicinally as a digestive aid, it is found to be effective in alleviating abdominal pain caused by indigestion, gallbladder illnesses, ulcers, vomiting, and diarrhea. It also kills parasites of the intestine like pinworms. Also used to strengthen the nervous system and for the treatment of cholera. The bark of Szechuan Pepper is also used by herbalists to treat rheumatic disorders.