Prickly ash (Zanthoxylum) is an evergreen tree that grows around the world. Its name comes from the half-inch (1.2-cm) spines that cover its bark.
Incredibly versatile, this species has been used for everything from alternative medicine to cooking — and even bonsai tree art.
Because the bark of the tree is prized by some cultures for relieving tooth and mouth pain, prickly ash is sometimes referred to as “the toothache tree” (1Trusted Source, 2Trusted Source, 3).
Yet, you may wonder whether this effect is backed by scientific testing and whether this tree has any other benefits.
This article examines the benefits, uses, and side effects of prickly ash.