Contents
Description
Acmella radicans, commonly known as the Toothache Plant, is a herbaceous flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to South America but has spread to other parts of the world, including Asia and Africa. The plant is known for its medicinal properties and is used as a natural remedy for toothache, hence its name. The plant produces small yellow flowers that bloom all year round.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Acmella |
Appearance
The Toothache Plant is a small herbaceous plant that grows up to 30 cm in height. It has a bushy appearance with numerous branches that are covered with small green leaves. The leaves are smooth and shiny, and they have a slightly spicy taste. The plant produces small yellow flowers that are about 1 cm in diameter. The flowers have a unique appearance, with a central disc surrounded by numerous tiny petals that give the flower a spiky appearance.
Care Guide
The Toothache Plant is easy to care for and can be grown both indoors and outdoors. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The plant requires regular watering to keep the soil moist. However, it is important not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require regular fertilization, but you can feed it with a balanced fertilizer every two to three months.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. You can mix compost or peat moss into the soil to improve its texture.
- Sunlight: The plant requires full sunlight to grow and flower. However, it can also tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11. If you live in a colder climate, you can grow the plant indoors or in a greenhouse.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Toothache Plant is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and aphids. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also develop fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. These diseases can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overwatering.
Habitat
The Toothache Plant is native to South America but has spread to other parts of the world, including Asia and Africa. The plant prefers warm and humid climates and grows well in tropical and subtropical regions. It can be found growing in open fields, roadsides, and forest edges.
Question and Answer
- Q: How is the Toothache Plant used as a natural remedy for toothache?
- A: The plant contains a natural anesthetic called spilanthol, which can numb the gums and relieve toothache. The leaves and flowers of the plant are chewed or crushed and applied directly to the affected area.
- Q: Can the Toothache Plant be grown indoors?
- A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it receives adequate sunlight and is watered regularly. However, it may not flower as profusely as it would outdoors.
- Q: Is the Toothache Plant edible?
- A: Yes, the leaves and flowers of the plant are edible and can be used as a spicy condiment in salads, soups, and other dishes.
- Q: Does the Toothache Plant have any other medicinal properties?
- A: Yes, the plant has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including fever, rheumatism, and digestive problems.
Related Plants
- Acmella oleracea
- Acmella grandiflora
- Acmella uliginosa
- Spilanthes acmella
References
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3913164/
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2221169115304310
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3580196/
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S094471131930688X
