Populus tremula

Phytodolor®, a standardised combination of extracts from Populus tremula, Fraxinus excelsior, and Solidago virgaurea, is the best-documented phytotherapeutic preparation containing aspen. Okpanyi and Arens-Corell (1990) documented anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic activities of the individual extracts and the combination in pharmacological studies. Bonaterra et al. (2007) confirmed anti-inflammatory effects via COX-2 inhibition in human monocytes. Phytodolor has been investigated in clinical studies for osteoarthritis and rheumatic complaints; Meyer and Elstner (1990) described the antioxidant contribution of Populus extracts.

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The bark of the European aspen was traditionally used in European folk medicine as a fever-reducing and antirheumatic agent. The phenyl glycosides (salicortin, populin, tremulacin) are hydrolysed to salicylates after oral uptake, explaining the antipyretic and anti-inflammatory effect analogous to acetylsalicylic acid. Maud Grieve documents the use against intermittent fever and rheumatism in 'A Modern Herbal' (1931).

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Alcoholic bark tincture of European aspen is traditionally used for chronic rheumatic complaints and osteoarthritis pain. The higher salicylate ester content in the tincture (salicortin, tremulacin) allows a more concentrated daily dose. Botanical reference: PFAF and Arzneipflanzenlexikon describe use in northern Europe and the Alpine region.

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Populus tremula (European aspen) is known as Bach Flower No. 36 'Aspen' (Bach Flower Remedies). Edward Bach described these flower essences in 1936 as a remedy for vague anxiety, diffuse foreboding, and apprehensiveness without discernible cause. The essence is traditionally applied highly diluted in water or alcohol. No scientific evidence for efficacy beyond placebo exists; the use belongs to traditional complementary medicine.

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Bud salve from Populus buds (often Populus nigra or hybrids; also aspen buds in folk medicine) contains resinous phenyl glycosides and flavonoids, applied externally for joint pain, muscle soreness, and skin problems. Documented in the folk medicine traditions of Northern Europe and the Alpine region. Antioxidant properties of Populus extracts demonstrated by Meyer and Elstner (1990).

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