Can I Keep a Toothache Plant in a Pot?

If you're looking for a unique and useful addition to your home garden, consider growing a toothache plant in a pot. This intriguing plant (Spilanthes acmella) is native to South America and is known for its distinctive taste and medicinal properties.

What is a Toothache Plant?

Also known as the "buzz button" or "electric daisy," the toothache plant is a unique herb that produces flowers with potent medicinal properties. The plant is characterized by its bright-yellow, button-like flower heads that contain a unique molecule called spilanthol. This compound is responsible for the plant's distinctive taste and therapeutic effects.

How to Grow a Toothache Plant in a Pot

Growing a toothache plant in a pot is relatively easy, and the plant requires minimal care. Here are the steps to follow:

Choose a pot that is at least six inches deep and has drainage holes in the bottom.

Fill the pot with well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients.

Plant the toothache plant approximately half an inch deep in the soil.

Water the plant once or twice a week, or whenever the soil becomes dry.

Place the plant in a sunny location where it will receive at least six hours of sunlight each day.

Medicinal Benefits of the Toothache Plant

The toothache plant has been used for centuries to treat a wide range of ailments, including toothaches, sore throats, and gum infections. The plant's active compound, spilanthol, has been found to have powerful analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.

Some of the medicinal benefits of the toothache plant include:

Reducing pain and inflammation

Relieving toothaches and gum infections

Improving digestion and reducing nausea

Boosting the immune system

How to Use the Toothache Plant

The toothache plant can be used in a variety of ways, depending on the specific ailment being treated. To use the plant for toothaches or gum infections, you can chew on the leaves or flowers for a few minutes to numb the affected area. The plant can also be made into a tea or tincture for internal use.

It's important to note that the toothache plant can cause some side effects, including a tingling or numbing sensation in the mouth. If you experience any adverse effects, discontinue use and consult with a healthcare provider.

In Conclusion

Growing a toothache plant in a pot is a great way to add a unique and beneficial herb to your home garden. With its powerful medicinal properties and distinctive taste, the toothache plant is sure to be a conversation starter and a valuable addition to your herbal arsenal.