Prickly Ash
NamePrickly Ash
Scientific NameZanthoxylum americanum
Common NamesPrickly Ash, Northern Prickly Ash, Toothache Tree, Hercules' Club
Plant FamilyRutaceae
Natural HabitatFound in woodlands, forest edges, clearings, and rocky slopes across eastern and central North America.
Parts Usedbark,fruit,leaf
Medicinal Actionsanalgesic,anti-inflammatory,carminative,expectorant
Traditional UsesTraditionally, Prickly Ash bark and berries have been used by Native Americans and early settlers as a remedy for toothaches (by chewing the bark or fruit), rheumatic pain, colds, fevers, and digestive complaints. It is also valued as a circulatory stimulant and diaphoretic.
Active ConstituentsAlkaloids (e.g., chelerythrine, sanguinarine), Coumarins (e.g., xanthyletin), Lignans, Resins, Volatile oils
Preparation Methodsinfusion,decoction,tincture,powder,poultice
Contraindications & WarningsAvoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Use with caution in individuals with gastrointestinal inflammation or bleeding disorders, and those taking blood-thinning medications.
Cultivation NotesPrickly Ash thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soil, though it is tolerant of various soil types. It can be propagated from seeds or root cuttings and is relatively low-maintenance.
Raritycommon
Description
Prickly Ash is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to North America, characterized by its thorny stems and aromatic leaves. It produces clusters of small, greenish-yellow flowers in spring, followed by small, reddish-brown, bumpy fruit capsules.
