Overview: Spilanthes Acmella (L.) Murray Var. Oleracea (L.) C.B.Clarke ex Hook.f.
Spilanthes acmella (L.) Murray var. oleracea (L.) C.B.Clarke ex Hook.f. is a popular medicinal plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. The plant is known for its many health benefits and is used in traditional medicine in various parts of the world, including Asia, Africa, and South America.
Origin and Common Names
The plant is native to South America but has spread to other parts of the world, including Africa, Asia, and the Pacific. The plant has many common names, including toothache plant, paracress, jambu, and electric daisy. These names reflect the plant's use in traditional medicine to ease toothaches and other painful conditions.
Uses
Spilanthes acmella has many uses in traditional medicine. The plant is known for its analgesic, anesthetic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. It is commonly used to relieve pain and inflammation in the mouth, gums, and throat. The plant is also effective at treating digestive problems, including bloating, gas, and diarrhea.
Spilanthes acmella is also used in topical ointments and creams to treat skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and acne. The plant's analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties make it an effective treatment for pain and inflammation associated with these skin conditions.
The plant is also used in traditional medicine to boost immunity, increase energy levels, and improve overall health and wellness. It is believed to have adaptogenic properties, which means that it helps the body cope with stress and exertion.
General Appearance
Spilanthes acmella is an annual herb that grows up to 50 cm in height. It has small, yellow, button-like flowers that bloom in late summer and fall. The leaves of the plant are dark green and ovate, with serrated edges. The plant prefers well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight.
The plant is also grown as an ornamental plant for its unique appearance and attractive flowers. Its leaves and flowers have a distinct flavor and are used in culinary dishes in some parts of the world. In addition, some cosmetic companies use Spilanthes acmella in their products for its anti-aging and skin-boosting properties.
In conclusion, Spilanthes acmella (L.) Murray var. oleracea (L.) C.B.Clarke ex Hook.f. is a versatile plant with numerous health benefits and traditional uses. Its unique appearance and flavor make it a popular choice for both medicinal and ornamental purposes.
Light Requirements
Spilanthes acmella var. oleracea requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. Thus, it is best to grow it in a location where it can receive at least six hours of sunlight per day. If the plant is located in an area with harsh sunlight, it must be periodically shaded to prevent scorching of the leaves and flowers.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature for growing Spilanthes acmella var. oleracea is between 20°C to 30°C, but it can tolerate temperatures up to 35°C. The minimum temperature required for growth is 15°C. Therefore, the plant can be grown year-round in warm regions, but it may require additional protection during the colder months.
Soil Requirements
Spilanthes acmella var. oleracea prefers well-draining, sandy loam soil with a pH range of 6 to 7.5. It is best to amend the soil with compost or other organic matter before planting to enhance water retention, drainage, and fertility. The plant can also grow in poor soil, but this will affect its growth and flowering potential.
Cultivation
Spilanthes acmella var. oleracea can be grown in both full sun and partial shade. The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH level between 5.5 and 7.5. It is recommended to start the seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost and then transplant them to the garden after the threat of frost has passed.
Watering Needs
Spilanthes acmella var. oleracea requires regular watering, especially during the hot summer months. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. The plant can tolerate brief periods of drought, but prolonged dryness can cause the plant to wilt and increase its susceptibility to disease.
Fertilization
Spilanthes acmella var. oleracea benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. A slow-release fertilizer can be applied at the beginning of the growing season, and then a liquid fertilizer can be applied every four weeks throughout the growing season. Be sure not to over-fertilize, as this can cause the plant to produce more foliage than flowers.
Pruning
Spilanthes acmella var. oleracea doesn't require extensive pruning, but removing spent flowers can promote continuous blooming. Pruning can also help shape the plant and prevent it from becoming too leggy. If the plant becomes overcrowded, thinning can be done in the early spring. Pinching back the tips of young plants can also encourage bushier growth.
Propagation of Spilanthes acmella var. oleracea
Spilanthes acmella var. oleracea can be propagated through various methods such as seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation via Seeds
Seeds of Spilanthes acmella var. oleracea can be sown directly into the soil. The ideal time for sowing is in spring, after the danger of frost has passed. The seeds should be sown 1 cm deep in well-drained soil. The soil should be kept consistently moist until the seeds germinate, which may take up to 2-3 weeks.
The seedlings should be thinned out, leaving 30-40 cm between each plant. Mature plants will produce seed heads that can be harvested and dried for future use.
Propagation via Cuttings
Stem cuttings of Spilanthes acmella var. oleracea can also be used for propagation. The cuttings should be taken from healthy, mature plants. They should be about 10 cm long and should be cut just below a node. The lower leaves should be removed, leaving only a few leaves at the top of the cutting.
The cuttings should be planted in well-drained soil, either in a pot or directly in the ground. The soil should be kept consistently moist until roots have formed, which may take 2-3 weeks. Once rooted, the cuttings can be transplanted to their final location.
Propagation via Division
Spilanthes acmella var. oleracea can also be propagated through division. This method involves dividing the plant into smaller sections, each with their own roots. The ideal time for division is in early spring.
The plant should be carefully dug up, and the roots should be gently separated. Each section should have a few stems and leaves, as well as a healthy root system. The sections can be planted directly into the ground or in pots filled with well-drained soil. The soil should be kept consistently moist until the plants have become established.
Regardless of the propagation method used, Spilanthes acmella var. oleracea requires adequate water, sunlight, and nutrients to thrive.
Disease Management
Spilanthes acmella var. oleracea is relatively disease-resistant and is not commonly affected by diseases. However, under certain conditions, the following diseases may affect the plant:
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that can affect the plant during periods of high humidity or when it is grown in crowded conditions. Symptoms include dark spots on the leaves, which may develop into larger patches and cause the leaves to wilt and drop. To manage leaf spot, remove the infected leaves, ensure proper air circulation, and use fungicides.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is another fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant, causing white, powdery patches to develop. This disease thrives in humid conditions and can be prevented by ensuring proper air circulation and by using fungicides if necessary.
Pest Management
Spilanthes acmella var. oleracea is also relatively pest-resistant, but, like all plants, it may be affected by pests. The following are some common pests that may affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Aphids
Aphids are small, green insects that can infest the plant. They feed on the sap of the leaves and can cause damage to the plant if left untreated. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, and manually remove the insects if necessary.
Cutworms
Cutworms are the larvae of certain types of moths and can cause significant damage to the plant by cutting off the stem at the base. To manage cutworms, use a protective collar around the stem of the plant or apply insecticides.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are another common pest that can affect the plant. They are tiny and difficult to detect, but they can cause significant damage to the leaves by sucking out the sap. To manage spider mites, use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or predatory mites.
