Spilanthes Herb Profile
Also known as
Spilanthes acmella, Toothache Plant, and Paracress
Introduction
Spilanthes is commonly called the toothache plant * and with good reason. The leaves and flower heads, particularly the young buds, contain a natural analgesic which numbs the tongue and gums when chewed, thus relieving the pain of toothaches. It also stimulates the salivary glands to produce more saliva, and may function as a simple tonic for healthy gums and oral flora. But that's only the start of the useful properties of spilanthes. The main constituent of spilanthes, spilanthol, is an effective antiparasitic, and has been used as a native remedy against malaria. It has natural antibacterial and antifungal actions as well, making it a good all purpose purifier. It seems to boost production of leukocytes and antiviral interferon, suggesting that the plant may be useful in enhancing immune system function, and it is often used topically to treat bacterial infection of the skin and wounds, and fungal infections like ringworm.
Constituents
spilanthol, stigmasterol, stigmasteryl-3-O-b-D-glucopyranoside, triterpens
Parts Used
Leaves, buds, flowers and stems
Typical Preparations
Buds and leaves may be chewed directly, or made into a water extract. Sometimes found in an alcohol extract.
Summary
Spilanthes is surprisingly unknown for a plant that has such a specific effect. The analgesic and antibiotic properties of spilanthes are well-known to scientists, and its efficacy against malaria strongly suggests that it may have a similar effect against other blood parasites such as Lyme disease. A mouth rinse of spilanthes extract can be used daily to promote gum health, and chewing as little as a single bud of the plant can numb the mouth and reduce the pain of toothache for up to 20 minutes depending on the sensitivity of the person. The most promising research into the use of spilanthes, though, is in its antibacterial properties. So far, in vitro testing has shown that the plant's extract has strong effect against E.coli, pseudomonas, salmonella, klebsiella pneumonae and staphylococcus albus, as well as inhibiting the growth of candida albicans.
Precautions
None known.
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
