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Spilanthes (Acmella oleracea)
Family
Asteraceae
Common Names
Spilanthes, Toothache Plant, Tropical Echinacea
Harvest
Flowers can be used fresh or dried. Harvest flower heads often to encourage continued flowering. Leaves, stems, and roots can also be harvested.
Growing Conditions
USDA Growing Zone(s): Astragalus grows as a perennial in zones 10-11, and it grows as an annual in zones 2-9.
Spilanthes is easy to grow. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and does well in containers as well as directly in the earth. Although spilanthes is frost-tender and grows as an annual plant in most growing zones, it will reseed itself in your garden.
Medicinal Uses
Spilanthes has traditionally been considered to have immunostimulant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Spilanthes leaves, stems, and flowers have historically been used medicinally to treat various ailments, including colds, flu, ear infections, and sinus infections. It can be prepared as a tincture, brewed as tea, or eaten directly. You can add spilanthes leaves to salad, as well!
This content is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or a substitute for medical treatment. Please consult your medical care provider before using herbal medicine.

Spilanthes growing in the nursery

Spilanthes
(Photo source)
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