Amazon Plant Could Put an End to Toothache Misery
Toothache is a common problem and some cases can be so severe that they bring misery and despair. Often, over the counter pain relief eases the pain short-term but a new rainforest remedy could provide the ultimate solution for toothache sufferers.
Scientists claim that an exotic red and yellow plant, found in the Amazon Rainforest, could hold the key to banishing toothache and there is a possibility that the remedy could replace daunting anaesthetic injections due to the potency of the plant.
Dr Francoise Barbira Freedman, an anthropologist from Cambridge University, first discovered the plant more than 30 years ago while spending time with a Peruvian tribe. During her trip she was struck by a bout of severe toothache in her wisdom teeth and the plant eased discomfort immediately. Some years later, Dr Freedman was asked to provide example of rainforest cures and she added the Acmella oleracea plant to her notes. She said at the time it was a bit of an afterthought and stuck at the end of the list, but when she returned to the UK the list had been flipped round and the plant was the first to be tested.
Researchers have since developed a gel from the plant, which can ease pain caused by toothache by preventing the transmission of pain signals to nerve endings. Early trials revealed that the gel was effective in treating impacted teeth and partially erupted teeth that were stuck behind the gum line.
The gel was also considered as an effective alternative to traditional anaesthetic when used on patients who were having a scale and polish treatment and trials showed that pain relief lasted longer and patients were more likely to attend appointments after treatment.
The gel could be on the market within the next two years and Dr Freedman has said that she will share any profits with the Keshwa Lamas community.
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