Supplement analysis backed by scientific evidence · PT

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Limited evidenceJoints & skin

Meadowsweet

The plant that gave aspirin its name, containing salicylate precursors. Despite the chemistry and centuries of use for aches and stomach complaints, there are no human trials at all.

Evidence last reviewed: August 2026

What the science says

  • Pain and inflammation Limited evidence

    A laboratory study of Filipendula ulmaria constituents and their gut metabolites found anti-inflammatory activity in cell-based assays. No randomized or controlled human trial of meadowsweet for pain, arthritis or inflammation is indexed in PubMed.

  • Stomach and digestive use Limited evidence

    An in vitro study of phytotherapeutics found activity against Helicobacter pylori among the extracts tested. Test-tube antibacterial activity says nothing about whether drinking the tea helps gastritis, and this has never been tested clinically.

  • Salicylate content Limited evidence

    Meadowsweet contains salicylaldehyde and methyl salicylate glycosides, which is the basis for the traditional analgesic reputation. The quantities in a normal tea or capsule dose are far below an analgesic dose of aspirin.

Dosage & safety

Studied doseNo studied dose. Traditional preparations use 2.5–3.5 g of dried flowering herb as a tea, up to three times a day; extract capsules typically supply 300–500 mg.
SafetyContains salicylates, so avoid it if you are allergic to aspirin, and do not give it to children or teenagers with a viral illness because of the theoretical Reye's syndrome risk. It may add to the effect of anticoagulants and NSAIDs. Avoid in asthma with aspirin sensitivity, and in pregnancy.

Scientific references

Where to buy

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