FolkKB

Brazil Cress

Acmella oleracea

Acmella oleracea, commonly known as "jokajima," is a plant traditionally used in folklore medicine practices in South America. While its specific uses are not well-documented, it has shown potential for treating musculoskeletal disorders such as osteoarthritis according to some preliminary studies. A pilot study indicated that a nutraceutical combination containing palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) and Acmella oleracea extract could significantly reduce pain in adults with chronic sciatica-related back pain over a 4-week period, though further research is needed to confirm these findings. Additionally, the plant has demonstrated significant inhibition of egg hatching and larval survival, along with an ovideterrent effect against Tuta absoluta, suggesting potential applications in pest control. In vitro propagation methods for Acmella oleracea have also been developed using specific media and cytokinin concentrations. No major safety concerns or recorded drug interactions are associated with this plant.

At a glance
Best evidence
A
Cautions
—

Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.

What the science says

  • The pilot study found that a nutraceutical combination containing PEA and Acmella oleracea extract showed significant pain reduction in adults with chronic sciatica-related back pain over 4 weeks. D PMID
  • Acmella oleracea encapsulated NE showed significant inhibition in egg hatching and larval survival, along with a notable ovideterrent effect against Tuta absoluta. D PMID
  • This systematic review suggests that Acmella genus plants may have potential for treating musculoskeletal disorders like osteoarthritis and myopathies, but further research is needed. A PMID
  • This study developed an efficient in vitro propagation method for Acmella oleracea using specific media and cytokinin concentrations. D PMID
  • This systematic review found that Acmella oleracea extracts showed significant in vitro antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. A PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Brazil Cress?

Brazil Cress (Acmella oleracea) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.

What does the scientific evidence say about Brazil Cress?

5 sourced findings are recorded for Brazil Cress; the strongest carries evidence grade A. For example: The pilot study found that a nutraceutical combination containing PEA and Acmella oleracea extract showed significant pain reduction in adults with chronic sciatica-related back pain over 4 weeks.

How strong is the evidence for Brazil Cress?

The strongest finding for Brazil Cress carries evidence grade A — strong evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is Brazil Cress safe? What are the side effects?

No major safety issues are recorded for Brazil Cress in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.

Does Brazil Cress interact with medications?

No drug interactions are recorded for Brazil Cress in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.

What are the common names of Brazil Cress?

Brazil Cress is also known as: Спилантес, Brèdes mafane.

Is Brazil Cress a proven treatment?

No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.

Sources

  1. T2 A Systematic Review of the Potential of Acmella Genus Plants for the Treatment of Musculoskeletal Disorders. literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 Exploring the Antibacterial Properties of Acmella Species: A Systematic Literature Review. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Development of an Efficient In Vitro Propagation Method for Acmella oleracea (L.) R.K. Jansen. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Encapsulation of a N-Alkylamide-Enriched Fraction from Acmella oleracea and Its Efficacy Against Tuta absoluta, the Invasive Key Tomato Pest. literature abstract metadata
  5. T2 Water-Dispersible Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) Supplementation for Functional Improvement in Adults With Chronic Sciatica-Related Back Pain: A Pilot Clinical Trial. literature abstract metadata