JERUSALEM OAK or AMERICAN WORMSEED

(Chenopodium anthelminticum; C. ambrosioides; CHENOPODIACEAE)

Part used: Seeds, oil, herb.

Therapeutic action:

Anthelmintic (vermifuge), antispasmodic, febrifuge, nervine, aromatic, expectorant, emmenagogue, tonic, diffusive, stimulant, diuretic, cardiac stimulant, diaphoretic.

The leaves and seeds of Jerusalem oak was an old American Indian remedy for worms and painful menstruation.  The principal use has been in the form of the powdered seeds, which is one of the best vermifuge remedies in nature.  The seeds are rich in a volatile oil that may be used apart.  It is a useful expectorant for pulmonary complaints.  It increases the power of the heart, and promotes secretions of the bronchi, kidneys, and skin.

Medicinal uses:

Round worms, hookworm (oil), tapeworm (especially good for children), intermittent fevers, hysteria, chorea, nervous affections, painful menstruation, pulmonary congestion, bronchitis, asthma, flatulent dyspepsia, chronic malaria.

Preparation:

Decoction, fluid extract, infusion, juice, oil, powder, tincture.  Do not use the oil during pregnancy, because of its potent emmenagogic effect.

Decoction     Simmer 1 ounce of the fresh plant for 20 minutes in 1 pint of milk or water.

Infusion         The bruised leaves may be used in this manner, cover to preserve volatile oil.

Juice              Express the juice from the fresh plant.

Oil                               The seed is very high in the medicinally valuable volatile oil.

Powder                     The seed should be bruised or powdered before using.