The Toothache Tree:  Zanthoxylum clava-herculis

Name:   Adam DeLee

Summary:   The Hercules Club, commonly called the toothache tree, is a small tree/shrub that is native to Arkansas.  This species is easily identified by the numerous thorns along its younger branches.  The Toothache Tree was discovered by the American Indians and was used to treat an amazing range of ailments.  Current research is also revealing many new therapeutic actions of the toothache tree.

I.                    Introduction

A.      Family Rutaceae

B.      Genus Zanthoxylum

C.      common names

II.                 Physical Characteristics

A.      shrub/small tree

B.      leaves:  pinnately compound

C.      bark

D.      thorns

E.       flowers

F.       fruit:  capsule

1.seed

III.              Habitat

IV.            Range and Distribution

V.               Origin and History of the Toothache Tree

A.      American Indians and early settlers

VI.            Present Roles

A.      nutritional support of many species of songbirds and                

butterflies

B.      medicinal roles

1.analgesic

2.antimicrobial

3.anticancer activity

a.     leukemia

b.     melanocarcinoma

4.anti-tumor agent

5.stimulates circulation

6.stimulates salivary glands and mucous membranes

VII.        Similar Species

A.      Devil’s Walking Stick

B.        Zanthoxylum americanum