Mashua or Tropaeolum tuberosum in Latin, is a perennial tuber that grows throughout the year in places without severe frosts. The abundant tubers have a rich, peppery flavor and can be cooked several different ways. Furthermore, this tuber is known as a natural repellant and can be combined with other crops to deter insects, nematodes, and others. The peppery flavor of mashua is known to kill and repel lice. You can make a simple powder from dried mashua root to apply to your hair or boil the mashua root to make an extract that you then use to wash your hair.