Does Spicy foods Affect White Willow Bark?

Use extra care with this combination

The short answer

Both capsaicin and white willow bark (salicin) irritate the gastric mucosa. Combined use significantly increases risk of stomach ulceration and GI bleeding.

How to arrange timing

Take white willow bark at least 2 hours apart from spicy food, preferably with a meal.

Reference

Reference noted for this food and supplement combination: Examine.com 2024

Important context

The effect can also change with food amount, supplement dose, product formulation, health conditions, and medication use. Ask a doctor or pharmacist first if you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a chronic condition.