Pure synthetic aspirin has only been manufactured and marketed since 1899, but plant extracts such as willow bark and spiraea rich in salicylic acid had been known to help alleviate headaches, pains (rheumatism, headache, neuralgia, arthritis, gout, and angina.), and reduce fevers since antiquity.
Aspirin is part of a group of medications called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Used long-term, at low doses, aspirin could help prevent heart attacks, strokes, and blood clot formation. Aspirin may be effective at preventing certain types of cancer, particularly colorectal cancer.
Taking aspirin may be a balancing act and it should be discontinued with severe nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain; bloody or tarry stools, coughing up blood or vomit, fever lasting longer than 3 days; or swelling and pain lasting longer than 10 days.Side effects such as upset stomach, heartburn; drowsiness; or mild headache might be tolerated.