Spilanthes (Spilanthes acmella)

Popularly used for an anti-viral, anti-fungal, immune enhancer which has a numbing effect in the mouth.

How to Grow Spilanthes from Seed

Bed Preparation

Spilanthes (toothache cress) is a frost sensitive annual that prefers full sun and soil rich in organic matter. Provide moderate to high moisture during growing season.

Planting

Start seed indoors 3-4 weeks before the last frost. Sow seeds 3-4" apart on the soil surface and press lightly to settle. Seeds germinate best when soil temps are 65-80°F. Seeds will sprout in14-30 days. Thin seedlings so that mature plants are 12-18″ apart. Transplant outdoors once the danger of frost has passed. For best results, provide plants with moderate to high amounts of water.

Harvest

Harvest above ground parts while plants are flowering (mid-late summer). Toothache cress is used fresh in tinctures, syrups, salves, etc.