Worm Bush is a highly aromatic herb native to Central and South America and is characterised by its slender stems and lanceolate leaves. Growing up to three (3) feet in height, Worm Bush thrives in warm climates and well-drained soil, often found in gardens, fields, and disturbed habitats. Its growth habit is bushy and sprawling, with branches extending outward from the central stem.
 
Worm Bush is treasured for its culinary and medicinal properties. In traditional cuisines, particularly in Mexican and Central American dishes, Worm Bush leaves are used as a culinary herb to add a distinctive flavour to beans, soups, and stews. Its pungent, citrusy aroma complements a wide range of savoury dishes, while its unique taste is described as slightly peppery with hints of mint and citrus.
 
Beyond its culinary use, Worm Bush also boasts various medicinal benefits. It is renowned for its carminative properties, aiding in digestion and reducing bloating and gas. Additionally, Worm Bush has been used traditionally as a remedy for intestinal parasites, with some studies suggesting its potential efficacy in expelling worms from the digestive tract. Rich in essential oils, vitamins, and minerals, Worm Bush is also valued for its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, contributing to overall health and well-being.
 
Whether enjoyed in cooking or used medicinally, Worm Bush is a versatile and beneficial herb that adds flavour and health benefits to a variety of dishes and remedies.

Common Name: Worm Bush

Botanical Names:
Dysphania Ambrosioides
Ambrina Ambrosioides
Ambrina Parvula
Ambrina Spathulate
Atriplex Ambrosioides
Blitum Ambrosioides
Botrys Ambrosioides
Chenopodium Ambrosioides
Chenopodium Integrifolium
Chenopodium Spathulatum
Chenopodium Suffruticosum Subsp. Remotum
Chenopodium Suffruticosum
Orthosporum Ambrosioides
Orthosporum Suffruticosum
Teloxys Ambrosioides
Vulvaria Ambrosioides

Family: Amaranthaceae

Other Names:
Amasamas
Ambroisie Du Mexique
American Wormseed
Amush
Anserina
Apasote
Camatai
Cashua
Chenopode
Epazote
Erva-De-Santa Maria
Feuilles A Vers
Herbe A Vers
Hierba Hormiguera
Jerusalem Tea
Jesuit’s Tea
Mastruco
Mastruz
Meksika Cayi
Mexican Tea
Paico
Paiku
Pazote
Semen Contra
Sie-Sie
Simon Contegras
Spanish Tea
Wormseed
Wurmsamen

Origin: Tropical America

Duration: Annual

Habit: Aromatic, Erect, Herbaceous, Woody

Hardiness: Hardy