spilanthes
Spilanthes spp.
---Flavor Profile and Uses
---Identification
---Harvesting Instructions
- Sometimes called "psychedelic gumdrops" or "buzz buttons" due to their distinct, almost overwhelming tingling flavor sensation / experience (see video below)
- Can be eaten fresh, used in teas, tinctures, mouthwash, or as powder capsules
- One of the most potent yet safe antiviral and antibacterial herbs
- Contains compounds that offer anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties
- Commonly known as "toothache plant" for its antiseptic, anesthetic, and saliva-producing properties
- Currently being researched for anti-parasitic properties and is reported to be effective for treating blood-born parasites such as malaria and Lyme disease
---Identification
- Grow 6 - 12" in height from a rhizomatous, spreading root system
- Stalks are erect and bear opposite, glossy, toothed leaves attached via petioles
- Flowers are can range from yellow to orange and are conical
- Thrive in full sun and rich, well-drained soil with ample moisture
---Harvesting Instructions
- Dries slowly due to high moisture content
- Harvest flowers by hand on a dry, sunny day anytime during the season when in bloom
- Dry in a single layer on a screen in a sheltered, well ventilated area for a couple of weeks (test many different flowers frequently as different sized blossoms dry at different rates and one less-than-dry flower can ruin a whole chamomile stash via mold)
- Store in an airtight container (preferably with paper or desiccation packets added to absorb moisture and prevent molding over time)
- Best practice is to check all dried flowers every couple of days for the first few weeks of storage to make sure no mold is growing
Carpenter, Jeff, and Carpenter, Melanie. The Organic Medicinal Herb Farmer. Chelsea Green Publishing, 2015.