Szechuan Pepper vs Norse Yarrow

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Szechuan Pepper

Zanthoxylum bungeanum

Analgesic

Achillea millefolium var. borealis

Analgesic

Szechuan Pepper

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Norse Yarrow

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Description

Numbing spice used in TCM for warming the middle, killing parasites, and relieving pain. Creates unique tingling sensation.

Nordic variety of yarrow used by Vikings and Norse peoples as a wound herb, digestive bitter, and fever remedy.

Active Compounds

hydroxy-alpha-sanshool, zanthoxylum alkaloids, limonene, linalool

achillin, azulene, camphor, flavonoids

Traditional Uses

Warming the middle burner, Killing parasites, Relieving toothache, Treating abdominal pain

wound staunching in Viking folk medicine, fever and cold remedy, digestive bitter

Modern Uses

Pain relief, Antimicrobial effects, Digestive stimulation, Anti-inflammatory research

hemostatic, anti-inflammatory, bitter tonic

Adult Dosage

3-6g dried pericarp in decoction

2-4g dried herb as tea or 3-5ml tincture

Contraindications

Pregnancy, Yin deficiency with heat, Excessive fire conditions

pregnancy - emmenagogue, asteraceae allergy

Side Effects

Numbness and tingling, Stomach irritation, Allergic reactions

contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

Reviewed by: HerbAlly Editorial Team, Medical herbalists and healthcare professionals

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E