Certified Organic Spilanthes Extract
Also known as: Acmella oleracea, Jambu, Toothache plant, Electric daisy, Spilanthes acmella
Overview
Certified Organic Spilanthes Extract is derived from the plant *Spilanthes acmella*, also known as Jambu or Toothache plant. This herbal extract is recognized for its traditional use in addressing pain, inflammation, and as an aphrodisiac. The primary bioactive compound is spilanthol, an alkamide responsible for the characteristic tingling sensation and its various biological activities. It is commonly incorporated into supplements targeting sexual health, pain management, and inflammation modulation. While research is ongoing, current evidence, primarily from preclinical studies and some clinical trials, suggests promising effects, though more robust, large-scale studies are needed to draw definitive conclusions.
Benefits
Spilanthes extract offers several potential benefits, with varying strengths of evidence. For sexual health, a randomized controlled trial using a nano-formulation of *Acmella oleracea* extract demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in premature ejaculation, increasing intravaginal ejaculation latency time (IELT) with a notable effect size. Another study reported increased sexual desire and satisfaction with topical application, though it did not significantly affect ejaculation latency. Regarding anti-inflammatory effects, preclinical studies consistently show spilanthol's ability to downregulate inflammatory mediators like NF-κB, reducing macrophage activation and pro-inflammatory cytokines, suggesting potential for musculoskeletal and joint health. Additionally, some in vitro and in vivo studies indicate vasorelaxant and antioxidant activities, which may contribute to pain relief and improved circulation.
How it works
The primary mechanism of action for Spilanthes extract involves spilanthol, which modulates inflammatory pathways by inhibiting NF-κB activation, thereby reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and mediators. Its characteristic tingling sensation is attributed to spilanthol's interaction with sensory neurons, likely involving transient receptor potential (TRP) channels, which may contribute to its analgesic and aphrodisiac effects. In the context of sexual function, the extract is believed to enhance arousal and satisfaction through local vasodilation and direct sensory stimulation. Spilanthol's lipophilic nature facilitates its absorption, particularly in topical formulations, allowing for localized effects, while oral administration also demonstrates systemic bioavailability.
Side effects
Clinical trials have generally reported good tolerability for Spilanthes extract, with no serious adverse events documented. The most common side effect is a mild tingling or numbness at the application site, which is a direct result of spilanthol's interaction with sensory nerves. Uncommon or rare side effects have not been significantly reported in controlled studies. There are no documented drug interactions, but caution is advised when combining it with other vasodilators or anti-inflammatory drugs due to the potential for additive effects. Contraindications are not well-established due to a lack of data, particularly concerning use during pregnancy, lactation, or in individuals with severe systemic illnesses. Safety in special populations, such as children and the elderly, has also not been thoroughly studied, warranting caution in these groups.
Dosage
The optimal dosage for Spilanthes extract is not definitively established, as clinical trials have used varying formulations and concentrations. One clinical trial utilized a nano-formulation with approximately 47% spilanthol content, applied topically or orally, demonstrating efficacy in sexual dysfunction. While exact dosing varied, the goal was to deliver measurable amounts of spilanthol. Topical creams have shown benefits when applied once or twice daily for sexual health. The maximum safe dose has not been established, but no toxicity has been reported at the doses studied. Effects are typically observed within weeks of consistent use. The form of administration can influence efficacy; topical formulations are often preferred for localized sexual health benefits, while oral forms have been used in inflammation studies. Spilanthol's lipophilicity enhances topical absorption, and oral bioavailability may vary depending on the specific formulation.
FAQs
Is Spilanthes extract safe?
Yes, clinical trials indicate good safety with mild local effects like tingling, which is a normal response to its active compound, spilanthol.
Does it improve sexual function?
Evidence suggests it can increase sexual satisfaction and, in some formulations, may help delay ejaculation, particularly with topical application.
How fast do effects appear?
Effects are typically observed within a few weeks of consistent use, depending on the specific benefit and formulation.
Is it effective for inflammation?
Preclinical evidence strongly supports its anti-inflammatory properties, though clinical evidence is still emerging but promising.
Can it be combined with other supplements?
There are no known contraindications, but caution is advised, especially with other vasodilators or anti-inflammatory agents, due to potential additive effects.
Research Sources
- https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/15579883231167819 – This randomized controlled trial investigated a nano-formulation of Acmella oleracea extract for premature ejaculation. It found a statistically significant increase in intravaginal ejaculation latency time (IELT) with a notable effect size, indicating clinical relevance. The study used a high-purity spilanthol extract (47%) and included a control group, suggesting high methodological quality despite limitations in sample size and duration.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12250362/ – This systematic review examined the anti-inflammatory and musculoskeletal health effects of the Spilanthes genus, including 11 studies. It found consistent anti-inflammatory effects, primarily via NF-κB inhibition, and improvements in joint function in animal models. While clinical evidence was limited, it was supportive, and the review highlighted the need for more clinical trials.
- https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/d53e/e6da1d676a4d209be1a68cbbe4d9338579f3.pdf – This clinical trial evaluated a topical Spilanthes cream for male sexual dysfunction. It reported a significant increase in sexual desire and satisfaction among participants. However, it did not find a significant change in ejaculation latency. The study noted the cream was safe and well-tolerated, but acknowledged limitations due to subjective measures and the lack of a placebo effect on ejaculation latency.