Casually referred to as a "wonder drug,"
aspirin -- or more technically acetylsalicyclic acid -- has more
uses than ever thought possible 50 years ago. The simple aspirin
has been poked, prodded, tested, coated, powdered, trialed and
dissolved to uncover all its benefits. Seven of the most common
follow: |
| |
|
1. |
relieves pain
from headaches, muscle aches and arthritis pain |
|
2. |
reduces your
risk for heart disease and stroke (a daily aspirin can help keep
platelets from sticking together and blocking blood flow) |
|
3. |
thins blood,
which can be beneficial to those who suffer from blood clots or
varicose veins. |
|
4. |
reduces fever |
|
5. |
reduces
swelling from sprains, bumps and even sunburn |
|
6. |
reduces the
effects of inflammatory agents found in bee's venom when a wet
aspirin is rubbed on the sting |
|
7. |
helps reduce
death rates from colon cancer by blocking the production of
prostaglandins (hormone-like substances), which inhibit tumor
growth, or by causing bleeding, which makes people go to the doctor
sooner. Further studies are under way to identify the connection. |
| |
| Aspirin has the potential for side
effects -- including allergic reactions and stomach upset -- so
speak with your doctor before taking aspirin on a regular basis to
decide if the health benefits outweigh the risks. Also, never give
aspirin to children under 16 because of its connection with Reye's
Syndrome in children with chickenpox or flu. |
 |
