Can someone tell me where to get some of these?
The Sechuan Buttons is the flower of a plant originating from Africa and South America when the two continents where still connected. Now it is only found in specific areas of Africa. The name ‘Sechuan Button’ is chosen as the flower is also found in Sechuan, China.
See Washington Post staff writers react to the taste
For some people tasting the button gives the sensation of an ‘electric’ shock. It starts with a champagne-like tinkling on the top of the tongue. Then it starts to move with a kind of anaesthetic feeling in the cheeks, a numb feeling followed by a saliva flush.
One will never forget it without the perception of negative. However, within one minute the negative feeling will disappear and make place for curiosity and a desire to analyze the different sensations. Obviously, one should be very careful in the choice and combination of wines.
The Sechuan Button is very healthy. In some countries raw fish and uncooked meat are served, which gives a chance on living parasites in your blood. The Sechuan Button is said to kill parasites in your blood.
The Sechuan Button also stimulates the gums. It helps make gums stronger and some people only use it for this reason. It is also said to help against Malaria in certain countries.
From: http://www.koppertcress.com/index.php?PageID=201