Epazote Herb. Mexico and Guatemala are the two countries that use the herb epazote in their cuisines. Epazote (pronounced eh-pah-ZOH-teh) is an aromatic herb commonly used in the cuisines and traditional medicines of central and southern Mexico and Guatemala. Its somewhat pungent flavor profile is described by many as “medicinal” and has notes of oregano, anise, citrus, mint, and even tar or creosote.