Prickly Ash – Zanthoxylum americanum

Prickly Ash is an herb that is native to the United States and has been used by the Native Americans for many different ailments. It is known to help with rheumatism, toothaches, digestive issues, and it increases secretions of the mucus membranes. It also increases circulation throughout the body and strengthens the immune system. Prickly ash is a
wonderful alterative and stimulant. 

Prickly ash is more commonly used in combination with other herbs because of its stimulating effect on the circulation thus increasing the action of the other herbs. Dr. Christopher put it in his Blood Stream Formula to help cleanse the blood and increase circulation. It is also an ingredient in his
tooth and gum powder. It is known as the toothache plant and when the bark is chewed it can help relieve the pain of a toothache. When the teeth are brushed with the powder it is effective in treating pyorrhea and receding gums. It has an effect on the tongue creating a tingling or slightly numbing feeling when in contact with the mouth. 

One of the first experiences I had with this herb is the tongue tingling effect. It is similar to what you feel when chewing echinacea root or seeds. It numbs the tongue so it can be very useful for toothaches or other mouth problems. It is also good to add to a poultice as an anodyne to help with pain.

The bark is
sold commercially but the berries are just as effective medicinally. The leaves have a similar but milder action. The bark of the root is also used. 

To make a tea of prickly ash bark, use a teaspoon of the herb to a cup of distilled water. Pour the boiling water over the herb, cover and let steep for 20 minutes. This can be used as a
mouthwash or drunk for internal issues. 

For a decoction combine the water and herbs in a pot on the stove. Cover the pot and bring to a simmer for 20 minutes.  Remove from the heat and let it steep for 20 minutes. This is slightly stronger than the tea and can be used in the same way. It can also be used externally as a fomentation
for skin issues, sprains or other injuries. 

Prickly ash bark has alterative, diaphoretic, deobstruent, nervine,stimulant and sialagogue properties, and was used in rheumatism and for increasing the secretions, for toothache, and externally as a counterirritant. It is a wonderful remedy for many diseases.