Get Your Personalized Supplement StackSupplement Stack Quiz

Epazote

Also known as: Epazote, Mexican Tea, Wormseed, Chenopodium ambrosioides, Dysphania ambrosioides

Overview

Epazote is a pungent leafy herb native to Central and South America, commonly used in Mexican cuisine, particularly with beans and soups. It is renowned for its anti-flatulence properties and traditional use as a digestive aid. The herb contains active compounds like ascaridole, which contribute to its properties. Although it is traditionally utilized for digestive discomfort, available research mainly focuses on its ethnobotanical uses and chemical composition, revealing limited clinical evidence to support its efficacy as a dietary supplement.

Benefits

Epazote's health benefits are largely anecdotal with limited scientific backing. Traditionally, it is thought to aid digestion and reduce flatulence, especially when used in cooked dishes, but there are no high-quality clinical studies, such as randomized controlled trials or meta-analyses, to quantify these effects or confirm its efficacy in treating digestive issues. Its ethnobotanical use suggests potential benefits, yet without rigorous testing, these claims remain speculative.

How it works

The active compounds in epazote, particularly ascaridole and various volatile oils, are believed to contribute to its anti-parasitic and digestive effects. Ascaridole's interaction with gastrointestinal physiology is not thoroughly studied, with unclear mechanisms of how these compounds affect digestive and parasitic processes within the body. Further research is required to elucidate these biological pathways.

Side effects

Epazote can be toxic in large doses due to the presence of ascaridole, leading to potential neurological symptoms. Although specific common side effects are not well-documented, there exists a risk of allergic reactions or interactions with certain medications. Pregnant women should avoid taking epazote, as it poses potential teratogenic risks. The lack of comprehensive data on morbidity from side effects underscores the need for caution and further research.

Dosage

Current research does not provide established dosing guidelines for epazote as a supplement. Traditionally, the leaves are cooked in dishes to mitigate bitterness and potential toxicity. Given the uncertainty around optimal dosage for therapeutic effects and safety, users should approach this herb carefully, particularly regarding high doses, which may lead to adverse effects.