Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Spilanthes, commonly known as the "toothache plant," has a long history of traditional use in various cultures for managing bites and stings. Indigenous peoples in South America, Africa, and Asia have employed Spilanthes preparations—primarily poultices or topical applications of its leaves and flowers—to help alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and possibly prevent infection after encounters with insects or minor animal bites. The rationale for its use is based on the plant’s sensory properties; Spilanthes contains spilanthol, a compound known for its numbing and tingling effects. These effects are thought to provide symptomatic relief from the discomfort associated with bites and stings. There is limited scientific research directly addressing the efficacy of Spilanthes for this specific indication; most available data focuses on its antimicrobial, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory properties in general. As such, while laboratory studies do suggest some bioactive components could theoretically benefit wound healing or infection control, there is a lack of rigorous clinical trials in humans substantiating its use for bites and stings specifically. Therefore, its application for this purpose remains primarily grounded in traditional and ethnobotanical practice rather than modern scientific validation.

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