The toothache plant, or Acmella oleracea, is a fascinating herb that has captivated chefs and herbalists alike with its unique numbing and tingling sensation. This effect is due to a natural compound called spilanthol, which is present in higher concentrations in the flowers, also known as "buzz buttons". While the plant offers potential health benefits and a distinctive culinary experience, understanding its safety profile is crucial before incorporating it into your diet.
The Safety Profile of the Toothache Plant
What Makes it Safe?
For most healthy adults, consuming the toothache plant in moderation as a flavoring or food is considered safe. Traditional uses of both the leaves and flower heads demonstrate a long history of human consumption across various cultures. The plant is not inherently poisonous, and its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties have been the subject of several studies. The raw leaves and flowers are rich in minerals and contain vitamins like Vitamin C, adding a nutritional component to their use. The unique, intense flavor and numbing effect are temporary and generally harmless.
Who Should Not Consume It?
Despite its general safety, several groups of people should avoid or use extreme caution when consuming the toothache plant.
- Pregnant Women: High intake of the plant may be associated with birth defects, so consumption is not recommended during pregnancy.
- Individuals Allergic to the Daisy Family: As a member of the Asteraceae family (daisy family), those with known allergies to similar plants should avoid it to prevent allergic reactions.
- People Taking Diuretics: The spilanthol compound has diuretic properties and could interfere with or potentiate the effects of prescribed diuretic medications.
- Prostate Cancer Patients: Animal studies suggest that high doses could promote male hormone production, potentially interfering with treatments for prostate cancer.
Culinary and Nutritional Aspects
Preparing and Enjoying the Buzz
The leaves and flowers of the toothache plant can be used both fresh and cooked to add a surprising, electric flavor to dishes. The young leaves have a mild flavor when cooked and can be used in recipes similarly to spinach. When raw, they offer a stronger tingling sensation.
- Salads: Chopped fresh leaves or crumbled flowers can add a distinctive, peppery and tingling flavor to salads.
- Soups and Stews: Both fresh and cooked leaves can be added to soups and stews for flavor, sometimes combined with chilies and garlic.
- Cocktails and Desserts: The flowers, or "buzz buttons," are popular garnishes for cocktails and desserts, where they provide an exciting, mouth-tingling sensation.
Nutritional Benefits
Beyond the stimulating effect, the leaves offer some nutritional value. They are a source of minerals and can provide Vitamin C. The herb's effect on stimulating saliva can also aid in digestion and appetite.
Medicinal Properties and Traditional Uses
Oral Health
The plant's primary traditional use is for oral care, from which it gets its name. Chewing the flowers or leaves provides a temporary numbing effect that helps relieve toothache pain, gum inflammation, and canker sores. Spilanthol also has antibacterial and antifungal properties, which help combat oral bacteria. The increased salivation it causes can help cleanse the mouth and provide a cooling sensation for sore throats.
Other Traditional Applications
Historically, the toothache plant has been used for various other ailments in traditional medicine:
- Stimulating digestion and easing flatulence.
- As a diuretic to increase urine production.
- As an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent.
Risks, Side Effects, and Drug Interactions
While largely safe in moderation, there are potential risks associated with the toothache plant. It is crucial to source the plant from a reputable supplier to avoid potential misidentification, as similar-looking plants can be inedible.
Allergic Reactions
For individuals with a sensitivity to the daisy family, there is a risk of an allergic reaction. Even those without a known allergy could experience minor skin or lip irritation with overuse. A case report also noted painful lip swelling in one individual after consuming the flowers in an appetizer, though this is rare.
Potential Drug Interactions
As mentioned, its diuretic properties pose a risk for those on diuretic medication. Furthermore, studies indicate that spilanthol may inhibit certain cytochrome P450 enzymes involved in drug metabolism, though the clinical relevance in humans is not yet fully established. It is always best to consult a healthcare professional, especially if taking any regular medication, before incorporating this herb therapeutically.
Comparison of Consumption Methods
| Feature | Fresh Leaves | Fresh Flowers ("Buzz Buttons") | Tinctures/Extracts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Effect | Tingling sensation, less intense numbing. | Strong, immediate numbing and tingling sensation. | Concentrated effect, easy dosage control. |
| Taste Profile | Grassy, slightly peppery, with a strong numbing aftertaste. | Grassy and earthy flavor, followed by an intense "electric" buzz. | Flavor varies with the solvent, but the numbing effect is concentrated. |
| Best Used For | Salads, soups, stews, or as a general culinary herb. | Garnishes for food and cocktails, or chewed for targeted oral pain relief. | Oral rinses, sore throat relief, or controlled topical application. |
| Ease of Use | Simple to add to recipes or eat raw. | Best chewed directly for maximum effect. | Requires preparation or purchase but offers precise application. |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the toothache plant, a member of the daisy family, is a safe and intriguing addition to the diets of most people when used in moderation. Its unique numbing sensation, caused by the active compound spilanthol, provides both culinary excitement and traditional medicinal benefits, particularly for oral health. However, careful consideration is necessary for pregnant women, those with daisy allergies, and individuals using diuretics or being treated for prostate cancer, as they should avoid consumption. As with any herbal remedy, if you have a pre-existing medical condition or are on medication, it's wise to consult a healthcare provider before using the toothache plant therapeutically. For everyone else, experimenting with this electric daisy can be a fun and flavorful experience, as long as it is done in moderation and with awareness of potential interactions.
Learn more about herbal uses and preparations at The Growers Exchange.
