The Toothache Herb: Spilanthes

Spilanthes is a member of the Asteraceae family with over 60 species occurring in this genus. Spilanthes acmella is also known as the toothache plant. The bronze-green leaves and the more potent yellow and red cone shaped flowers have a taste and properties similar to coneflower (Echinacea purpurea). As a sialagogue it stimulates the flow of saliva which cleanses the mouth, tones the gums, and enhances immune function. Spilanthes also improves digestion, eases flatulence, improves the appetite, and helps to overcome nausea and vomiting by its stimulating effect on the salivary glands.

It is called the toothache plant because when you chew on the leaves or flowers it produces a numbing effect to the tongue and gums. Spilanthes can be used in this manner to help ease the pain of a toothache.

Growth Habit
Spilanthes is a native of the tropics of Africa and South America. It grows well in full sun to partial shade reaching a height of 12 to 15 inches with a spread of 24 to 30 inches. It has bronze-green foliage with yellow petaless flowers with a red eye on top of long stems. To promote bushy growth wait until the fourth set of true leaves appear then pinch back the plant to the second set of true leaves.

Spilanthes has no serious disease problems although it may occasionally suffer from spider mite damage. In my zone 10 sub-tropical garden it behaves as a perennial. It is a perennial in USDA zones 10-12. It can be grown as a perennial indoors in cooler climates or treat it as an annual and sow fresh seeds in your garden every year. It is easily started from seeds directly sown in the garden or indoors sown in seed flats. You can also propagate spilanthes from stem cuttings. It needs regular watering, do not allow the plant to dry out. It thrives in high humidity in well-drained soils.

Spilanthes Salad
The leaves, especially of the milder tasting Spilanthes oleracea AKA paracress; when used in moderation make a great addition to fresh green salads. The leaves have a slight peppery taste.