Spilanthes is nicknamed the toothache plant. It temporarily numbs the areas of the mouth where it makes contact, mainly the gums, and through increased production of saliva has an antibacterial effect similar to that of echinacea. Spilanthes is also antifungal and antiparasitic. It has also been used to treat malaria as well as co-infections of Lyme disease. Spilanthes is native to Brazil and Africa where it is used to treat stammering and to improve digestion of carbohydrates and fats. Be aware that spilanthes causes a temporarily tingling sensation that is part of the immune response it triggers.