Epazote

Epazote is a leafy herb native to Mexico and Central America, also found in parts of the Southern United States. It has a strong, distinctive flavor often described as pungent, with notes of anise, mint, and even a hint of petroleum. The leaves and stems are used fresh or dried.

Epazote is primarily used as a flavoring agent in Mexican cuisine, especially in dishes like beans, moles, and quesadillas, to impart its unique taste. It is also believed by some to aid digestion and reduce the gas associated with eating beans. Manufacturers use it to add an authentic, traditional flavor profile to ethnic foods.

Epazote is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a flavoring. In traditional medicine, it has been used for various ailments, but scientific evidence for these uses is limited. Some studies suggest epazote contains compounds that may have antioxidant properties. However, very high doses of epazote oil have been shown to be toxic in animal studies, though this is not relevant to typical food use. Regulatory bodies like JECFA and EFSA have not set specific limits for epazote when used as a flavoring.