Family Name: N.O. Rutacea
Botanical Name(s): Xanthoxylum Americanum
Popular Name(s): Toothache Tree, Yellow Wood, Suterberry
Parts Used: The root-bark and berries
Habitat: Prickly Ash is widely found in North America.
Description: Prickly Ash grows to height of 25 feet. In the
spring the tree bears small, yellow-green flowers before the leaves
appear. The plant has pinnate leaves and alternate branches which are
covered with prickles. The plant bears red berries which grow in
clusters and have an aromatic odour.
Uses: Prickly Ash acts as a stimulant. It is used in chronic
rheumatism, typhoid and skin diseases and to purify the blood. The
berries have carminative and antispasmodic properties. They are used as
an aperient and to cure dyspepsia and indigestion. The bark, when
powdered acts as an excellent application to indolent ulcers and old
wounds.
