Evidence supporting the use of: Toothache Plant
For the health condition: Toothache
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
The Toothache Plant (Acmella oleracea, also known as Spilanthes acmella) has been used traditionally in various cultures, especially in South America, Africa, and Asia, to relieve toothache and other oral discomforts. The main bioactive compound, spilanthol, is known for its strong tingling and numbing effect when chewed, which can temporarily dull pain in the mouth. Ethnobotanical records indicate that indigenous peoples have long chewed the fresh leaves or flower heads to alleviate tooth pain, treat gum infections, and enhance oral health. The plant is sometimes referred to as "toothache herb" or "paracress" due to this historical application. However, while the numbing sensation is well documented and the local anesthetic action of spilanthol has been characterized in laboratory studies, there is limited high-quality clinical evidence supporting its efficacy for toothache in humans. Most of the support comes from traditional usage and small-scale or preclinical studies that confirm spilanthol's effects on nerve endings and its mild antimicrobial properties. As a result, the evidence rating is moderate, reflecting a strong traditional basis but only preliminary scientific validation. Further clinical trials are needed to confirm its safety and effectiveness as a treatment for toothache.
