Epazote

Also known as wormseed. This powerful herb has a somewhat off-putting smell, though once added in small quantities into dishes, namely bean dishes, adds a certain flavor that might have always been missing! Epazote also has medicinal uses. When used as described, it helps relieve flatulence, and in large quantities the seeds can be used to expel intestinal worms. Epazote is a vigorous self-seeding herb, so take care to plant it in a spot you hope to have it for a lifetime. It does extremely well in poor soils, and only needs to be watered during germination. It is quick to set seed, but the best culinary use is of the leaves before flowering, so cut it often and dry to have a nice supply of this interesting and valuable herb.