Salicylic acid has been used for thousands of years to treat fever and inflammation. Salicylic acid is a plant hormone found in willow bark or willow extract. Highly concentrated levels of salicylic acid can produce a strong vinegar smell.
Aspirin is made through a chemical reaction called esterification, when salicylic acid and acetylchloride are combined. Felix Hoffman was the first to perform this experiment. During this chemical reaction, these substances melt together and change to a solid, which is aspirin. In this process, the phenol group of salicylic acid is changed into an acetyl group.
Salicylic acid is a type of beta hydroxy acid that is the main ingredient of several skin care products used to nourish and hydrate the skin. When salicylic acid is combined with bismuth, it produces Pepto-Bismol, which relieves symptoms of nausea, vomiting, heartburn and gas. Salicylic acid is also used in a variety of other personal care items such as dandruff shampoo, antiseptic and toothpaste.
