Spilanthol Based Herbal Ointment: A Review of its Local Anaesthetic and Multifunctional Applications

Spilanthus acmella (SA) commonly referred to as the toothache plant, is a member of the Asteraceae family. This plant is known by various names in different regions. The phytochemical composition of SA includes components such as triterpenoids, α and β-amyrin esters, and alkaloids, which are particularly rich in N-isobutyl amides and alkyl amides. It also contains stigmasterol and myricyl alcohol, Spilanthol the main constituent, is involved in various biological activities such as antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, diuretic, antinociceptive, and insecticidal actions. SA is utilized in medical and dental applications, as well as in beauty care cosmetics. Its pharmacological properties include anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, analgesic, local anaesthetic, vasorelaxant, immunomodulatory, diuretic, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antifungal, larvicidal, bio insecticidal, convulsant, laxative, anticancer, aphrodisiac, antinociceptive, anti-obesity, and neuroprotective properties. This article provides a brief review of the pharmacological activities and toxicological studies of SA. It also discusses various formulations of SA.