Spilanthes Acmella Flower Extract

Good

Antioxidant

Spilanthes Acmella Flower Extract at a glance

  • Also known as Acmella oleracea flower extract
  • Has potent antioxidant properties
  • Also could improve the look of hyperpigmentation
  • Has a potential “freezing” effect on wrinkles

Spilanthes Acmella Flower Extract description

_Spilanthes acmella_ flower extract comes from a plant also known taxonomically as _Acmella oleracea_ and colloquially called “toothache plant”. It is native to tropical regions and has long been used in traditional medical practices due to its analgesic (pain-relieving) properties. According to its International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients (INCI) designation, this extract is officially used as a skin conditioning ingredient, meaning it improves skin’s smoothness and moisture. Research, however, finds this is potentially a much more multi-faceted ingredient. Studies find _Spilanthes acmella_ flower extract is rich in antioxidant polyphenols, including gallic acid, which not only fights free radical damage, but also helps improve the look of hyperpigmentation. This extract also has anti-inflammatory properties. Of particular interest, however, is an active compound within the _Spilanthes acmella_ called spinlanthol, which gives the plant its anesthetic properties. Spilanthol, through a series of mechanisms, can block and modulate nerve receptors. There are studies suggesting these properties can temporarily halt facial muscle contractions, resulting in a short-term alleviation of wrinkles, though more research is needed. Usage levels of _Spilanthes acmella_ flower extract range from 0.1%-20%, depending on the formula.

Spilanthes Acmella Flower Extract references

  • SpecialChem, Website, Accessed November 2025
  • Periodica Polytechnica Chemical Engineering, November 2024, pages 620-629
  • Scientia Pharmaceutica, September 2024, pages 1-13
  • World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research, June 2024, pages 604-629
  • Planta Medica, April 2023, pages 551-560
  • International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences Review and Research, January-February 2023, pages 17-24
  • International Journal of Environmental Research & Public Health, March 2021, pages 1-15

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.