Prickly Ash • Zanthoxylum clava-herculis

Parts Used: bark

Affinity: circulatory system, digestive system

Herbal Action: alterative, analgesic, astringent, bitter tonic, circulatory stimulant, pelvic decongestant, vasodilator

Indications:

• Stimulates digestive secretions and improves digestion

• Improves circulation in the micro-vasculature, helpful for Raynaud's syndrome, hemorrhoids, varicose veins, spider veins, Alzheimer’s and dementia

• Relieves pain associated with rheumatism, neuralgia, myalgia, and tendonitis

Preferred Preparations: decoction, tincture

Taste: peppery citrus (it is normal to experience an increase in salivation and a numbing effect)

Contraindications: not for use during pregnancy, while breastfeeding or with digestive inflammation