Evidence supporting the use of: Spilanthes
For the body system: Gums

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Spilanthes (Spilanthes acmella), also known as the "toothache plant," has a long history of traditional use for oral health, particularly in supporting gum health. Indigenous peoples in South America, Africa, and Asia have chewed its flowers or leaves to relieve toothache and promote oral hygiene. The plant contains spilanthol, a compound that produces a numbing and tingling sensation, which can provide temporary relief from oral discomfort. Additionally, Spilanthes is believed to have mild antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which may contribute to its traditional use in addressing gum irritation and minor infections.

While these traditional uses are well-documented, scientific validation is limited. A few in vitro and animal studies suggest that Spilanthes extracts possess antimicrobial activity against oral pathogens and may reduce inflammation. However, robust clinical trials in humans are lacking, and there is insufficient high-quality evidence to fully substantiate its effectiveness for supporting gum health. As a result, Spilanthes’ reputation for oral care is primarily rooted in traditional medicine rather than modern scientific research.

More about Spilanthes
More about Gums

Products containing Spilanthes

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.