Salicylates are chemicals found naturally in fruits and vegetables and are a major ingredient in aspirin and other pain-relieving medications as well as in many common health and beauty and other cosmetic products.
Aspirin, also known as acetylsalicylic acid, is converted to salicylate in the body. Salicylate is the active metabolite responsible for most of aspirin’s anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. Salicylic acid is a monohydroxybenzoic acid which is a type of phenolic acid that has analgesic, antibiotic, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties and can reduce fevers.
Salicylates are often synthesised using a process called the Kolbe-Schmitt reaction, which involves reacting sodium phenoxide with carbon dioxide under pressure. This reaction produces sodium salicylate, which is then acidified to yield salicylic acid. Artificially made salicylates are added to some foods as preservatives and to enhance flavour. Because many foods already contain salicylates, this can lead to an overload and sensitivity.
Those who are sensitive to salicylates find that an excessive amount first stimulates, then depresses the central nervous system. This can lead to many different kinds of symptoms, including some that might seem incompatible. For example, both hyperactivity and lethargy are associated with salicylate sensitivity.
Symptoms of salicylates intolerance
- Breathing difficulties
- Changes in skin colour
- Cognitive and perceptual disorders
- Coughing
- Ear infections
- Headaches
- Hyperactivity
- Inability to concentrate
- Itching, skin rash or hives
- Lethargy
- Mouth ulcers, or red rash around the mouth
- Nasal congestion
- Nasal polyps
- Rhinitis
- Sinusitis
- Stomach pain
- Swelling of the face, feet, eyes and hands
- Wheezing
NOTE: In rare cases, sensitivity to salicylate can also cause symptoms of anaphylactic shock.
Food sources of salicylates
- Alfalfa
- Almonds
- Apples and apple cider vinegar
- Aubergines
- Avocados
- Beer
- Bell peppers
- Blueberries
- Broad beans
- Broccoli
- Cherries
- Chilli peppers
- Coffee
- Courgettes
- Cucumbers
- Dry spices
- Dates
- Figs
- Grapefruit
- Cauliflower
- Cheese
- Grapes
Household products that can contain salicylates
- Acne products
- Artificial colours and flavourings
- Bubble baths
- Cosmetics
- Fragrances and perfumes
- Herbal remedies
- Lozenges
- Medications
- Mouthwash and mint–flavoured toothpaste
- Muscle pain creams
- Shampoos and conditioners
- Shaving cream
- Sunscreens and tanning lotions
- Topical creams
- Wart or callus removers
Other products that contain salicylates
- Aspirin
- Acetylsalicylic acid
- Alcohol (except gin and whiskey)
- Art products
- Artificial food colouring and flavouring
- Azo dyes
- Benzoates (preservatives)
- Benzyl salicylate
- Beta–hydroxy acid
- Choline salicylate
- Cleaning supplies
- Disalcid
- Ethyl salicylate
- Isoamyl salicylate
- Magnesium salicylate
- Menthol
- Methyl salicylate
- Mint
- Octylsalicylate
- Oil of wintergreen (methyl salicylate)
- Peppermint
- Phenylethyl salicylate
- Salicylic acid
- Salicylaldehyde
- Salicylamide
- Salsalate
- Sodium salicylate
- Spearmint
- Tartrazine yellow food dye E102
NOTE: In addition to the sensitivity of some individuals to salicylates, aspirin has been linked to incidences of Reye’s Syndrome (a disease that affects all organs and can cause swelling of the brain and liver) in children. Use of aspirin during flu and viral illnesses should be avoided for all children.
Related subjects
- A-Z of ailments
- A-Z of hazards to health
- Allergies
- E-number dangers
- Phenol intolerance