Aspirin, scientifically referred to as acetylsalicylic acid, is a time-tested and versatile home remedy that has become a staple in households worldwide. This comprehensive guide will delve into the history of aspirin, its production process, the wide range of ailments it addresses, recommended dosages, potential side effects, and important contraindications.
Aspirin's origins can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where the use of salicylate-rich plants like willow bark and meadowsweet to treat pain and fever was widespread. It wasn't until 1853 that Charles Frederic Gerhardt, a French chemist, synthesized acetylsalicylic acid. However, Felix Hoffmann, a German chemist working at Bayer, rediscovered Gerhardt's work in 1897 and developed aspirin as a stable, more palatable form of the drug. Aspirin was then launched by Bayer as a commercial product in 1899.
In the early 1900s, aspirin rapidly became a household staple, primarily used as a pain reliever, fever reducer, and anti-inflammatory agent.1 People relied on aspirin for relief from various aches and pains, including headaches, toothaches, and joint pain. It was also commonly used to reduce fever in patients suffering from colds or the flu. Aspirin was initially available as a powder, but by 1915, it was sold in tablet form, making it even more convenient and accessible.1
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