Wormseed uses: what it helps with and how to use it safely

Wormseed (often called epazote or Dysphania/Chenopodium ambrosioides) is a strong-smelling herb long used to expel intestinal worms and calm digestive upset. People still turn to it for pinworms, roundworms and for easing gas when cooking beans. That history matters, but so do safety rules—this plant is powerful and can be toxic in high doses.

Main uses

Antiparasitic: Traditional medicine uses a tea or tincture of wormseed to clear intestinal parasites. Lab studies of the oil’s main compound (ascaridole) show it can kill some parasitic worms in vitro. Practically, people use it when they suspect pinworms or roundworms, often after consulting a health provider.

Digestive aid and cooking: In Mexico and Central America, small amounts of epazote are added to bean dishes to reduce gas and add flavor. A pinch of fresh or dried leaves while cooking beans can cut bloating and brings a distinct, slightly medicinal taste.

Topical and insect use: The essential oil is used in some traditional remedies for skin pests and as an insect deterrent. It’s concentrated and should be handled carefully—dilution and patch testing matter.

How to use wormseed and stay safe

Tea (common home use): Steep about 1 teaspoon of dried leaves in one cup of boiling water for 10 minutes, strain, and sip once daily. Keep use short—several days rather than weeks—and stop if you feel unwell. For children, pregnant people, and those with liver problems, avoid the tea unless a clinician says otherwise.

Tinctures and capsules: Standardized products are less risky than homemade essential oil. Follow label dosing and check with your clinician before starting—especially if you take other drugs.

Essential oil: Don’t swallow the oil. It’s highly concentrated and can cause vomiting, dizziness, and worse. If used topically, dilute heavily (start at 0.5–1%), do a patch test, and never use it on broken skin or on children.

Warnings: Avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Stop use immediately if you get nausea, vomiting, severe headache, tremors, or unusual weakness—these can be signs of toxicity. Always talk to a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and safer prescription options for parasitic infections.

Bottom line: Wormseed has real traditional uses for worms and digestion, and lab work supports some antiparasitic effects. Use low, short doses if you choose to try it, treat the essential oil with respect, and check with a clinician before using it for parasites or on children and pregnant people.