Epazote Seed

Dysphania ambrosioides

Annual herb.
Green foliage and flowers.
Reaches 4 feet tall.
Commonly used in Mexican cooking.

Supplied as a packet of approximately 250 seeds.

This Product is Available Now.

1 or more £2.25GBP each. Group & quantity discounts

Description

An interesting plant that has small green flowers on its branches that you really have to look for to see them!

It is a herb that seems to smell and taste differently to different individuals and people seem to either love it or hate it, a bit like Marmite! Some of the descriptions of Epazote's flavour include citrus lemon, pine, petrol, mint, turpentine or mustard green. The younger leaves tend to have a milder flavour than the older ones but you also find that the flavour mellows as it cooks.

The name 'epazote' acutally comes from a Nahuatl term meaning 'skunk sweat'!

Traditionally used to flavour black beans as it can reduce flatuence, it is commonly used in many Mexican dishes, including enchiladas, rice, salsa and quesadillas. It is recommended that you use it sparingly, and cook it in food. Overdoses of epazotes essential oils can cause health problems (including vomiting or even death). Smilarly, it is recommended that you grow it on its own as it can inhibit the growth of surrounding plants. Also, grow the plant away from fish ponds and watercourses.

Also known as Wormseed, Jesuit's tea, Mexican tea, Payqu, Herba sancti Mariae.

Native to Central and South America, and southern Mexico.

Annual.
Self-seeding.
Frost tender.
Reaches 4 feet (120 cm) tall.
Flowers in summer.
Wind pollinated.
Will grow in most soil types.
Sow from spring onwards.
Likes a sunny position.
Medical Uses
Can aid digestion.
Used to ease colic and stomach pain.
Used to expel parasitic worms.
Has been used as a wash for haemorrhoids.
Can detoxify snake bites.
To treat athlete's foot and insect bites.
Other Uses
Can repell insects.
Can be used in wreath decorating.

Do not eat if you are pregnant or suffer from rheumatism, arthritis, gout, kidney stones or hyperacidity.
Disclaimer
As with all alternative medicines and plants with purported medicinal benefits it is important to inform your health care providers that you are using them; this helps to ensure safe and coordinated care. We can accept no liability for any side effect or contingency from any allergy or any other cause or harm that may arise. If in doubt please do consult a medical practitioner before using.