Botanical Overview
Acmella oleracea, known commonly as Toothache plant, Spilanthes, Electric daisy, or Paracress, belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to tropical Americas, especially South America. The herbal parts used include the herb, flower, and leaf, prized traditionally for their analgesic properties.
Energetics
This plant is warming in temperature with a neutral moisture nature. It carries pungent, bitter, and numbing tastes, demonstrating an ascending directionality. It is tonifying in nature and primarily acts on the qi aspect of the body.
Primary Actions
- Analgesic
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antimicrobial
- Anesthetic
- Sialagogue (stimulates saliva)
Indications
Western
- Toothache
- Oral pain and inflammation
- Gingivitis
- Minor wounds
- Sore throat
- Digestive discomfort
Syndromes
- Oral infections
- Inflammatory conditions
- Poor salivation
TCM
- Oral ulcers
- Gum swelling
- Throat sore
Syndromes
- Heat toxin in Lung and Stomach meridians
- Qi stagnation with heat
Ayurveda
- Dental pain
- Oral infections
- Inflammation
Syndromes
- Kapha imbalance with stagnation
- Pitta related inflammations
Unani
- Toothache
- Mouth ulcers
- Sore throat
Syndromes
- Inflammatory conditions of oral cavity
- Cold and warm diseases
Constituents & Mechanisms
Main phytochemicals include alkylamides, spathulenol, flavonoids, polyacetylenes, and essential oils. These constituents account for the plant’s analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and sialagogue actions.
Dosage & Preparations
- Topical application of fresh crushed flower heads or leaves
- Tincture 1:5 in 40% alcohol, 2-5 mL 1-3 times daily
- Infusion using 2-4 g dried herb, 1-2 times daily
- Chewing fresh leaves or flowers for local analgesia
Safety & Contraindications
Generally safe for topical and culinary use but can cause local irritation or allergic reactions. Use cautiously during pregnancy and lactation due to insufficient data. Avoid combining with other local anesthetics. Known allergy to Asteraceae family plants contraindicates use.
Astrological Correspondences
No credible evidence available for planetary or elemental rulers.
Selected References
- Plants For A Future: Acmella oleracea (Toothache Plant)
- NIH/MedlinePlus: Spilanthes Acmella and its Use in Traditional and Modern Medicine (2017)
- WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants, Volume 3 (2007)
- Chinese Herbal Medicine Materia Medica (Wang, 2005)