Spilanthes acmella by Ray Sahelian, M.D.

Spilanthes acmella flower heads are chewed to relieve toothache and other mouth related troubles. Leaves are used externally in treatment of skin diseases. Leaf decoction is used as diuretic and lithotriptic. Spilanthes acmella whole plant is used in treatment of dysentery. Spilanthes acmella is the botanical name and this herb is also known as akarkara.

Spilanthes acmella (Paracress), a common spice, has been administered as a traditional folk medicine for years to cure toothaches, stammering, and stomatitis. Previous studies have demonstrated its diuretic, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory activities.

Spilanthol, isolated from Spilanthes acmella reduces activation of NF-kappaB, which negatively regulates the production of proinflammatory mediators.