Acmella oleracea, also known by names like Spilanthes acmella, “toothache plant,” “Sichuan buttons,” or “jambu,” is a flowering herb in the Asteraceae family. Valued in traditional medicine across Asia and South America, it’s prized for its distinctive numbing sensation and wide-ranging therapeutic applications.
Key Active Compound: Spilanthol
The primary bioactive ingredient, spilanthol, is an alkylamide responsible for Acmella’s signature mouth-numbing effect. Spilanthol exhibits local anesthetic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties by inhibiting nitric oxide synthesis and suppressing pro-inflammatory transcription factors.
Health and Therapeutic Benefits
- Oral Health & Pain Relief
Chewing the flower or leaves delivers immediate relief from toothache pain and gum discomfort, thanks to spilanthol’s anesthetic action. It’s also employed for soothing stomatitis (oral inflammation) and sore throats.
- Anti‑Inflammatory & Antioxidant Effects
Clinical reviews affirm strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities within Acmella oleracea. These are mediated by compounds like spilanthol and flavonoids, which downregulate inflammatory mediators such as NF‑κB, COX‑2, IL‑6, and TNF‑α
- Dermocosmetic & Anti‑Aging Applications
With its muscle-relaxing properties, spilanthol is a sought-after alternative to Botox, relaxing facial muscles to smooth expression lines. It also enhances skin hydration, elasticity, and collagen production, making it popular in advanced skincare formulations
- Antimicrobial & Pest Control Potential
In vitro studies show efficacy against common bacterial and fungal pathogens, including E. coli, Salmonella, and Candida albicans, and insect pests such as mosquitoes and corn earworms, making it promising for both medicinal and agricultural uses
Traditional Culinary and Ethnomedical Uses
Acmella oleracea is not only medicinal but also culinary. It features in Amazonian and Indian cuisines, used raw in salads or cooked in stews like Brazil’s tacacá. Besides, its tingling sensation has been used in folk traditions to stimulate saliva, appetite, and digestion, and as a remedy for mouth and throat ailments.
Acmella oleracea is a remarkable botanical with demonstrable benefits from mouth-numbing relief to skin rejuvenation, and even antimicrobial and culinary applications. While its soothing and skin-enhancing properties make it attractive for modern formulations, users should approach it thoughtfully and prioritize safety.
Visit us to explore more about Acmella Oleracea and its products: Click Here
Price range: $10.00 through $14.50
Price range: $260.00 through $3,250.00
