Description
(Acmella oleracea)
(Spilanthes oleracea)
This coneflower is a species of flowering herb of the Asteraceae family, along with Sunflower and Echinacea. A mild but effective anasthetic known by several names, including Eyeball Plant, Electric Daisy and Paracress, but most commonly called Toothache Plant.
Warm regions allow Toothache Plant to grow as a perennial. More temperate and cooler climates will mean raising the plant as an annual.
It is used as a medicinal remedy in various parts of the world. A small, erect plant, it grows quickly and bears gold and red inflorescences. It is frost-sensitive but perennial in warmer climates.
Fresh leaves, cut finely, add impact to salads in small amounts. The leaves can be cooked to lessen their impact and may be used as leafy greens. Eaten with savory herbs and soups in South America.
Historical Medicinal Purposes
Infusion of the leaves and flowers is traditionally given for stammering and toothache. Extracts from the Toothache Plant have proven effective against mosquitoes. Planting on borders for flying pest control has been a traditional use of the flower.
Germination 92% – March 2020
Minimum 55 seeds
