Jambu, also called ‘Buzz Buttons’ or just ‘Spilanthes’ (Acmella oleracea; syn. Spilanthes oleracea), is an herb with an effect that stands out among other herbs…one taste and you will be in shock and awe. There is a phytochemical in Jambu that causes a tingling sensation (along with increased salivation, then cooling in the throat) and has been the subject of much study into its unique activity.
Turns out that this compound is in a group of chemicals that are structurally related to the endocannabinoids which have a lot of activity in the central nervous system of the human body.
Knowing how this main active compound works gives added insight to its traditional uses as a toothache remedy, a local anesthetic, aphrodisiac and for inflammatory conditions.
Jambu has culinary uses in some cultures, with both fresh or cooked applications. In Brazil, Jambu is used as a spice. It is often mixed with chilies and garlic—adding a very interesting kick to foods!
The interesting tingling sensation caused by Jambu has spurred interest into potential applications for which it is being studied, including premature ejaculation, burning mouth syndrome, and also for cosmetic applications for its anti-wrinkle muscle relaxing properties.
Through scientific investigation, spilanthol, the main active in Jambu, has been found to be analgesic, antinociceptive, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiwrinkle, antimutagenic, antifungal, antimalarial, anticonvulsant, and vasorelaxant, among other activities.
#MedicinalPlants #Ethnopharm #Ethnobotany #TheEthnobotanicalExplorer #spilanthes #jambu #analgesic #Brazil
Photo by H. Zell
*This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice or treatment from a personal physician.