Zanthoxylum americanum, called Toothache Tree by many Indigenous nations, has numbing bark and berries traditionally chewed to relieve dental pain and stimulate circulation. Its peppery, tingling sensation made it a cornerstone remedy for rheumatism, poor digestion, and sluggish blood flow across Eastern Woodlands and Great Plains traditions.
bark, root, berry
tincture, decoction, powder, tea
1–3 mL tincture 2–3x daily; 1–2 tsp dried bark as decoction daily
Very warming — may cause flushing. Avoid in pregnancy.
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