Epazote

A couple of days ago I came down with what seems to be my bi-anual bout with intestinal infection - otherwise known as 'the revenge'. This time with a bit of a fever, weakness and frequent trips to the bathroom. Mari thinks it was 'animalitos' or intestinal parasites and amebas. After drinking 2 cups of her Epazote tea each day I'm back to normal much faster than I have been in the past. I've read that some people think the taste of the tea is too strong but I thought it was pleasant - like a strong chamomile tea with a hint of anise.

From the Tropical Plant Database

In herbal medicine systems throughout Latin America epazote is a popular household remedy used to rid children and adults of intestinal parasites, worms and amebas. The plant is also used in cooking - it is said to prevent intestinal gas if the leaves are cooked and/or eaten with beans and other common gas-forming foods. The leaves and seeds of epazote have long been used in Central and South American medicine as a vermifuge (to expel intestinal worms). In Brazilian herbal medicine, it is considered an important remedy for worms (especially hookworms, round worms and tape worms) and is also used for coughs, asthma, bronchitis and other upper respiratory complaints; for angina, to relieve intestinal gas, to promote sweating and as a general digestive aid. It is used for similar conditions in Peruvian herbal medicine today.

RainTree - Tropical Plant Database