Acmella oleracea

Acmella oleracea, commonly known as toothache plant, paracress, or Szechuan button, is a species of flowering herb in the family Asteraceae. Native to the tropics of Brazil, it is now widely cultivated and naturalized in various parts of the world for its culinary, medicinal, and ornamental uses. The plant is notable for its powerful numbing and saliva-inducing effects, primarily due to the presence of a compound called spilanthol.

Description

Acmella oleracea is an annual or perennial plant, depending on the climate in which it is grown. It typically reaches 30-45 cm in height and bears opposite, ovate leaves. The plant's most distinctive feature is its golden, globe-shaped flowers, which consist of numerous disk florets and no ray florets. These flowers are responsible for the plant's unique sensory effects when chewed.

Cultivation

Acmella oleracea prefers well-drained, fertile soil and a sunny position. It is relatively easy to grow from seed, cuttings, or division. In temperate regions, it is often grown as an annual, planted after the danger of frost has passed. The plant requires regular watering, but care should be taken not to overwater. It is also relatively pest-resistant, although it can be susceptible to some common garden pests.

Uses

Culinary

In culinary applications, Acmella oleracea is used for its numbing and flavor-enhancing properties. It is a traditional ingredient in some regional cuisines, including those of Brazil and parts of Asia. The leaves and flowers can be eaten raw or cooked, adding a unique tingling sensation to dishes.

Medicinal

Traditionally, Acmella oleracea has been used in folk medicine to treat various ailments, including toothaches, throat and gum infections, and as an anti-inflammatory agent. The numbing effect of spilanthol is thought to be responsible for its pain-relieving properties. However, scientific studies on its efficacy and safety are limited.

Ornamental

With its striking flowers and compact growth habit, Acmella oleracea is also grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and containers.

Chemical Composition

The bioactive compound spilanthol is primarily responsible for the plant's numbing effect. It is found in all parts of the plant but is most concentrated in the flowers. Other phytochemicals present in Acmella oleracea include flavonoids, polyacetylenes, and sesquiterpene lactones, which may contribute to its medicinal properties.

Potential Health Benefits and Risks

While Acmella oleracea is used in traditional medicine, its health benefits have not been fully validated by scientific research. Preliminary studies suggest it may have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and analgesic properties. However, more research is needed to confirm these effects and to establish safe dosages. As with any medicinal plant, it should be used with caution, and individuals with allergies or specific health conditions should consult a healthcare professional before use.

See Also

• Asteraceae
• Medicinal plants
• Spilanthol
• Traditional medicine