Spilanthes

Spilanthes / Toothache Plant (Acmella oleracea, syn. Spilanthes acmella)

Spilanthes is a fast-growing medicinal and culinary herb best known for its unique numbing, tingling effect when the fresh flowers or leaves are chewed. Often called “toothache plant,” it has a long history of use for oral health and immune support. In the garden, its low, spreading habit and continuous flowering make it both a functional medicinal plant and a lively addition to herb beds and polycultures.

Key Characteristics

Oral analgesic and immune-support herb
The flower heads and leaves contain spilanthol, a compound responsible for the plant’s signature tingling and numbing sensation. Fresh flowers are traditionally chewed to relieve toothaches, gum irritation, and mouth infections, while tinctures and teas are used for immune support and as a stimulating tonic.

Continuous blooms that support beneficial insects
Spilanthes produces distinctive yellow and red button-like flowers throughout the growing season. These blooms attract a range of small pollinators and beneficial insects, making it a useful addition near vegetable beds where ongoing insect activity supports ecological balance.

Fast-growing, spreading annual for ground-level coverage
This plant forms a low, sprawling mat, typically staying under 12–18 inches tall while spreading outward. It works well as a living mulch in warm-season plantings, helping cover soil, retain moisture, and occupy space between taller crops.

Dynamic medicinal plant for herb gardens and polycultures
Spilanthes integrates easily into medicinal herb gardens, raised beds, and permaculture systems. Plant it along edges or pathways where flowers can be easily harvested fresh, or weave it into annual guilds where its low growth habit complements taller plants without competing for light.

• Native range: South America (widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions)
• Plant life cycle: Annual (perennial in frost-free climates)
• Sun requirements: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil requirements: Medium to medium-wet
• Mature height: 12–18 inches
• Bloom time: June – October
• Bloom color: Yellow with red centers
• USDA Hardiness zones: 9–11 (grown as annual elsewhere)

For best results, grow Spilanthes in warm conditions with consistent moisture. Harvest flowers frequently to encourage continued blooming, and keep plants actively growing for the highest concentration of medicinal compounds.