toothache tree
The term "toothache tree" refers to certain trees, particularly from the genus Zanthoxylum, known for their pain-relieving properties used in traditional medicine.
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Definition
C1Botany
(scientific)A tree, often from the genus Zanthoxylum, characterized by spiny trunks and aromatic properties.
Example
- The toothache tree, Zanthoxylum americanum, is easily identified by its spiny trunk.
B2Traditional Medicine
(historical, informal)A tree whose bark and leaves are chewed to produce a numbing sensation that relieves tooth pain.
Example
- Early settlers used the toothache tree to alleviate dental pain.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "toothache tree":
prickly ashsour toothturpentine treegum treebitter barkangelica treepeppermint treesuicide tree