What unique but important property is the herb Epazote known for?

neelie_447

Might it be its use as a remedy for intestinal worms? "It is anthelmintic, that is, it kills intestinal worms, and was once listed for this use in the US Pharmacopoeia." "The plant's ability to expel intestinal worms has been attributed to the essential oil of the seed and 'Oil of Chenopodium' has been used for several centuries worldwide as a worm remedy." http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epazot http://www.rain-tree.com/epazote.htm Apr 22 08, 7:27 PM

voltaire11

Used in authentic Mexican cooking, it is said to cure upset stomachs, so it is essential to all those beans-and-chile infused Mexican food. http://gardenplantcare.com/Herbs_25/epazote.shtml Apr 22 08, 7:28 PM

zbeckabee

Oil of chenopodium is derived from this plant. It is anthelmintic, that is, it kills intestinal worms, and was once listed for this use in the US Pharmacopoeia. It is also cited as an antispasmodic and abortifacient - the first birth control pills were derived from research on epazote. Epazote is used as a leaf vegetable and herb for its pungent flavor and its claimed ability to prevent flatulence caused by eating beans but also in the treatment of amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, malaria, chorea, hysteria, catarrh, and asthma. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epazote#Medicinal_uses Apr 22 08, 7:58 PM

triviapaul

Epazote is mostly known as antiflatulent. "it has been used in moderation to help relieve abdominal discomfort (gassiness) that can come from eating beans." http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epazote http://mexicanfood.about.com/od/spanishterms/g/Epazote.htm This property is not unique, however. The heavy use of cumin or caraway in central-european dishes is also to prevent flatulence. There sauerkraut is almost always served with kümmel for this reason. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caraway Apr 22 08, 8:28 PM

1cyprus

Lots of claims on this site. Maybe you're after the insect repellent property, a few leaves in a fire will keep mosquitos and flies away. http://rain-tree.com/epazote.htm Apr 23 08, 3:52 AM