Herbarium of the Ancients — Detailed RecordFR · EN
Epazote
Dysphania ambrosioides
Please read before use: the information below describes traditional and informational uses — it does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. In case of doubt, pregnancy, breastfeeding, ongoing treatment, or use in children, seek advice before use.
Enhanced precautions for this plant: The plant contains ascaridole, a compound that can be toxic to the liver, kidneys, and nervous system at high doses: prolonged or concentrated internal use should be avoided without professional advice. Strongly discouraged during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to its traditional use as an abortifacient and its potential toxicity. Contraindicated in young children. Never use pure epazote essential oil internally; it is considered dangerous even at low doses.
Infusion — Leaves
Light infusion of fresh or dried leaves
A few fresh or dried leaves are briefly infused in hot water, traditionally accompanying legume-rich meals. A healthcare professional or qualified herbalist should be consulted before any regular use, due to the possible toxicity of the ascaridole compound. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.
Powder — Dried leaves
Dried leaves reduced to condiment powder
Well-dried leaves can be crumbled or reduced to powder to flavor stewed dishes, in traditional Mexican culinary proportions, without exceeding occasional and moderate use. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.
Where to find it
Obtaining the plant
It is mainly found in herb shops specializing in Latin American plants, or cultivated in aromatic gardens in warm climates; it once grew spontaneously near Mexican dwellings.
Harvest season
When to harvest it
Leaves are traditionally harvested in late summer, before flowering, when their aromatic fragrance is most intense.
← Back to profile