Common names: Tu Jing Jie [China], Mexican Tea, Worm Seed, Worm Grass, Goosefoot [USA] Dungarachirombo [Zimbabwe] Rato Latte [Nepal] Simen Contra [Dominica, Trinidad] Herb a Vers [Guadaloupe] Paico [Aymara]
Hookworm, roundworm, threadworm, ringworm, head louse [China, Maya, USA, Houma, Nepal, Caribbean, Tobago] Cholera in infants [Africa] {These treatments are often followed with a purgative}
Decocted for colic and stomach pain. [USA]
Cough and asthma.[USA] Fever [Creek]
As a “spring tonic” [Creek]
Poultice for headache [Houma]
Unwanted pregnancy [Mahuna] Late menses. Painful menstruation. [Africa]
As a wash, for hemorrhoids. [USA]
Decocted and topical for: Snake bite. [Catawba] Poisonous insect and spider bites [China]
Eczema, pruritus.[China]
Whole plant is thought to have wound healing properties. [USA]
Steeped in rum and drank for worms (Dangerous!) [Barbadous]
Combinations: With garlic and Portulaca oleraceae for parasites [Trinidad]
Preparation: For parasites use dried leaves, stem, seeds, add sugar and rice power to make pea-sized pills. Take 3 gm., twice daily.
Dosage: 5 fen – 1 qian
Caution: Chenopodium ambrosioides is poisonous and contraindicated in cases of neurasthenia, heart disease, peptic ulcer, and pregnancy. The use of the oil can lead to nervous system disorders, spasms, paralysis, and can cause death.
Notes: Volatile oil (up to 90% ascaridol, plus geraniol and methyl salicylate) and triterpenoid saponins. Ascariol is a powerful worm expellent. [EMP]
