The toothache plant, scientifically known as Acmella oleracea, is known for its unique effects on oral discomfort. This plant goes by several common names, including Szechuan Buttons, Buzz Buttons, Electric Daisy, Jambu, or Paracress. Historically, cultures have used it for temporary oral pain relief, especially toothaches, due to its distinct numbing sensation.
Understanding Toothache Plant’s Properties
The toothache plant’s effectiveness comes from spilanthol. This alkaloid is found throughout the plant, with highest concentrations in its flowers. Spilanthol causes tingling, numbing, and analgesic effects.
It interacts with nerve endings in the mouth, causing a tingling sensation followed by localized numbing. This desensitizes the affected area, providing temporary pain relief. Other compounds, like flavonoids, may also help reduce pain perception.
Preparing Toothache Plant for Oral Relief
The toothache plant can be prepared in various ways for oral discomfort. Each method offers a different approach to application and effect intensity.
Direct Application
Direct application of fresh leaves or flowers is the simplest method for immediate relief. Chew a small piece of a fresh leaf or flower bud, or place it directly onto the affected tooth or gum. Within seconds, a strong tingling or buzzing sensation will occur, followed by noticeable numbing. This localized anesthetic action typically lasts two to twenty minutes, providing temporary desensitization.
Infused Oil
Infused oil offers a controlled, milder topical application. Gather fresh or dried toothache plant material, including leaves and flowers. Slowly infuse these parts into a carrier oil (e.g., olive or coconut oil) using a gentle heat method like a double boiler over several hours. After infusion, strain the plant material and store the oil in a cool, dark place. Massage this oil onto gums or apply to the painful area with a clean finger or cotton swab.
Tincture
A tincture extracts plant compounds using alcohol as a solvent, creating a concentrated liquid. For a basic tincture, combine one part fresh toothache plant flowers and leaves with two parts 100-proof alcohol in a glass jar. Chop the plant material to increase surface area for extraction.
Steep the mixture in a cool, dark place for four to six weeks, shaking periodically. After steeping, strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer and store in dark dropper bottles. Apply a few drops directly to the affected area with a cotton swab for targeted relief.
Herbal Rinse
An herbal rinse can be made from fresh or dried toothache plant material. Steep one tablespoon of fresh leaves and flower buds, or a teaspoon of dried material, in one cup of boiling water for ten to fifteen minutes. Strain the plant material and cool the liquid to a comfortable temperature. Use this cooled infusion as a mouthwash, swishing and gargling for about thirty seconds before spitting it out. This rinse can help address oral discomfort and provide mild numbing across the mouth.
Important Considerations and Safety
While the toothache plant offers temporary relief, precautions are important for safe use. Perform a patch test on a small skin or gum area before widespread application to check for allergic reactions. Individuals with allergies to daisy (Asteraceae) family plants should use caution, as the toothache plant belongs to this group. Do not ingest the plant in large quantities.
It is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals due to potential complications. Avoid use if taking diuretic medications, as spilanthol is a natural diuretic. Individuals with prostate cancer should exercise caution, especially with high doses, as the plant might influence male hormone production. The relief is temporary and does not address the underlying cause of oral pain.
When to Consult a Dentist
The toothache plant offers temporary comfort, but is not a substitute for professional dental care. Prompt dental attention is important for persistent, severe, or worsening pain lasting more than one or two days. Swelling in the mouth or face, difficulty opening the mouth, or pain with fever, chills, or a foul odor indicate a potentially serious infection requiring immediate evaluation.
Ignoring significant dental issues and relying solely on temporary remedies can lead to more severe complications. A dentist can diagnose the pain’s cause and recommend appropriate treatment to prevent further damage or infection spread. Seeking professional dental care ensures proper management of oral health.