The Toothache Plant (Acmella oleracea), also known as Jambu, Paracress, or Electric Daisy, has long been valued in traditional medicine for its immediate pain-relieving effects. Originating in the tropics of Brazil, this flowering herb is noted for the distinct tingling and numbing sensation it produces when consumed. Historically, it has been used as a local remedy for dental pain, sore gums, and mouth ulcers.
The Science of Oral Relief
The plant’s distinctive action comes from spilanthol, a potent N-alkylamide concentrated primarily in the flowers and leaves. Spilanthol is responsible for the intense, buzzing sensation that quickly transitions into profound local numbness, acting as a topical anesthetic that interrupts pain signals. The mechanism involves spilanthol interacting with specific sensory nerve receptors (such as TRPV1 and TRPA1) located in the mouth’s mucous membranes. By modulating these pathways, spilanthol desensitizes the nerve endings, blocking the transmission of pain signals to the brain. The plant also contains compounds that exhibit anti-inflammatory and antiseptic qualities, supporting general oral health.
Practical Preparation Methods for Oral Relief
The most immediate method to access the plant’s numbing power is through direct chewing, which is often the quickest way to address sudden tooth discomfort. Harvest a single fresh flower bud or a small leaf, wash it gently, and then slowly chew it for about 15 to 30 seconds. The initial intense tingling will subside into a noticeable numbness in the local area, which can be maintained by tucking the chewed material against the painful gum or tooth.
Simple Tincture/Extract
A tincture is an alcohol-based extract that concentrates the active compounds for long-term storage and convenient application. To create a simple tincture, roughly chop fresh flower heads and leaves, then combine them with a high-proof, food-grade alcohol (like 100-proof vodka) using a ratio of one part fresh plant to two parts alcohol. Place the mixture in a clean glass jar, ensuring the plant material is submerged, and seal it tightly. Allow the mixture to infuse in a cool, dark location for four to six weeks, shaking the jar once daily. After infusion, strain the liquid through a fine-mesh cloth and store the finished tincture in a dark amber dropper bottle for use as a topical application or mouth rinse.
Infused Oil
An infused oil provides a milder, non-alcoholic preparation beneficial for localized application or mixing into salves. Use dried plant material for this method, as residual moisture from fresh herbs can cause the oil to spoil quickly. Gently crush or chop the dried flowers and leaves, then cover them entirely with a stable carrier oil, such as olive oil or sweet almond oil. To encourage extraction, slowly infuse the oil using a double boiler or slow cooker set below 130°F (55°C) for several hours, or cold-infuse the mixture in a cool, dark place for four to six weeks. Once complete, strain out the plant matter and store the finished oil in a tightly sealed container for direct application using a clean cotton swab.
Safety, Sourcing, and Storage
While the Toothache Plant is generally safe for temporary use, it is not a substitute for professional dental care; persistent pain requires a visit to a dentist. People with known allergies to the Asteraceae family (including daisies and ragweed) should avoid using the plant due to potential cross-reactivity. The plant also has known diuretic properties, so individuals taking blood-thinning medication or diuretics should consult a healthcare provider before use. There is limited scientific data on the safety of spilanthol during pregnancy and breastfeeding, so avoidance is advisable during these times.
For sourcing, the plant can be grown easily at home as an annual, or dried material and tinctures can be purchased from reputable herbal suppliers. Store tinctures in dark glass bottles away from light and heat, where they maintain potency for approximately two years. Dried plant material should be kept in airtight containers away from humidity, retaining its strength for about one year.