American Wormseed
SCIENTIFIC NAME:(Chenopodium ambrosioides )
Native to Central America, South America and the Caribbean, it is now cultivated in China and the U.S.. American Wormseed is a perennial in warm climates and an annual in colder regions. Growing to heights of 3 to 5 feet, it’s lance shaped serrated leaves grow clustered around the slender stem and it’s fragrant summer blooms are yellowish-green flower clusters that produce small black seeds come autumn.
Common Names:
Chenopodium, Feather Geranium, Goosefoot, Jerusalem Oak, Jesuit Tea, Mexican Tea
Uses:
Wormseed oil is used for rheumatism, painful joints, eczema, and bites. Drank as a tea to treat cramps, laxative, nervousness and depression, as well as to rid the intestines of worm infestations. A decoction is used to treat gastrointestinal complaints. Washes made from the juices sooth and treat hemorrhoids and a poultice speeds healing and protects wounds from infection.Applications:
Oil:
Should only be used under a physician's care. Overdose can be deadly.
Tea:
Brew tea using fresh or dried leaves. Drink 1 cup with honey, once daily for no more than 2 consecutive days.
Decoction:
A decoction made by boiling 1 OZ. of the fresh plant with 1 pint of milk or water has sometimes been given in doses of a wineglassful.
Wash:
Create a wash by boiling any or all parts of the plant and allowing the wash to cool to a comfortable temperature before using.
Poultice:
Make poultice from stems and leaves and apply to afflicted area as warm as is tolerable.
Warnings:
The oil from this plant is highly toxic if too much is ingested, it is highly recommended that use of this plant be under a doctor’s supervision. Do not treat young children with this herbal remedy unless its a topical application.
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