Toothache Remedy Akarkara for traditional use in dentistry, its safety, and usage.

By Wow Herbs Team | Updated: September 2026 | 8 min read

Traditional medicine systems, both Ayurveda and Unani, had a few plants that they did indeed find to be numbing to the mouth, and Akarkara (also known as Pellitory Root, Anacyclus pyrethrum) is one of the most specifically mentioned. The effect on the mouth is immediate and unmistakable, even with many herbs it is more abstract. Monarka chew a small piece and will immediately experience a unique tingling, warming, mild numbness in the mouth that will spread across the tongue and gums.

That 'feeling' isn't a byproduct, it's what made Akarkara a reliable traditional cure for toothache and overall mouth pain. This guide is designed to discuss that use only: how it works, how to use it safely and properly, and — and importantly — when it should be used by a dentist and not a home remedy.

This is the mechanism by which Akarkara works for toothache.

The root contains an alkylamide compound known as pellitorine which gives Akarkaras a numbing, warming effect. The localised tingling and mild numbing on contact with mucous membranes are what alkylamides are known for and that's what makes chewing on the root or making it a paste to apply directly to the gums so quick and noticeable as compared to many traditional remedies.

The local numbing effect is the traditional mechanism for the use of Akarkara particularly in the area of discomfort in the teeth or gums — the pain-relieving sensation from using it is something akin to a topical dental anaesthetic gel (but much milder and less lasting).

For centuries, Akarkara has been a traditional remedy for dental problems.Akarkara has been a traditional remedy for dental discomfort for centuries.

Direct contact with the affected tooth/gum area: The most traditional approach is to chew a small piece of dried Akarkara root and let saliva absorb the pellitorine and other active ingredients that will then come into direct contact with the tooth/gum area.

Application on to the gums: A little amount of Akarkara powder may be applied on to the affected area of the gums, left there for a few minutes instead of swallowed immediately in order to have contact with the discomfort specifically.

In traditional tooth powders: Traditionally Akarkara has been used in traditional herbal tooth powders and dental preparations, which is considered a numbing agent and is traditionally believed to aid in maintaining oral health.

With the addition of clove: Clove is another herb with a long history in dentistry (due to its eugenol content) and there are some traditional preparations that combine it with Akarkara, a warming, numbing effect that should still be used with caution and in small quantities due to the strength of both herbs.

Proper Administration of Akarkara for toothache.

Use sparingly: Akarkara's tingling effect can be quite strong, so first time users should try a small piece of root or a small dose of powder to test their tolerance.

Apply to the area of discomfort: When chewing the root, apply it only to the area of discomfort or when using powder, apply it to the area of discomfort only, to concentrate the effect.

Don't use it for long periods: Akarkara is a remedy that you don't use for extended periods of time like it is used for regular oral care products.

If necessary, rinse afterwards: The tingling sensation is usually a normal and expected experience, but rinsing the mouth with water can help to minimize the sensation if it becomes too intense.

Not for open wounds or broken skin in mouth: Akarkara may be uncomfortable or irritating on broken skin or open wounds, especially in the mouth.

What Akarkara Can't Do — Important Limits

This is the most critical part for those who may be thinking of using Akarkara for a toothache.

It doesn't treat the underlying cause. The term toothache doesn't mean a toothache – it could point to serious infection, an abscess or simply a minor sensitivity problem. The numbness that Akarkara provides in the short term is not a solution to the decay, infection or structural dental issues.
The effect dulls the mind and is not very strong. It is not as powerful or enduring as dental anaesthetic used in the clinic and should never be used as an alternative to effective pain management, particularly in the case of any significant pain.
But it will not prevent an infection from developing. If the toothache is due to infection and/or an abscess, then the infection will not resolve if you treat the symptoms, and can be a serious medical problem if it is left untreated.
Masking pain can cause delay in proper treatment. There is a chance that if you use Akarkara to make yourself feel better, you may put off visiting the dentist and end up with a problem that gets worse until you finally get that appointment.

When to see a dentist instead:

As with any home remedy to help ease a dental pain, it should never be used as a substitute for professional dental treatment. If you have a dentist, go immediately to your dentist if you develop:

Toothache lasting more than a day or two
Swelling in the face, gum or jaw area that you can see.
Fever, combined with dental pain.
Pain that interferes with sleep or eating behaviour
Should the tooth discharge, tastes abnormal or show any damage, it should be addressed.
Any pain that comes back or gets worse after it has been eased temporarily by a home remedy.

If you have a toothache with swelling that affects your face or a fever, it may be a dental infection that you need to treat quickly by a dentist, or even urgently — this is not a case that you want to deal with using only herbs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a cure for a toothache that can be found in the Akarkara tree? No — If you experience a toothache, it could be temporarily alleviated by the numbing effect of Akarkara, but it won't cure the condition of the tooth, such as a decay or an infection. Any toothache that is not gone, or becoming worse, should be properly evaluated by a dentist.

Can I chew Akarkara root for dental pain daily? Traditionally, Akarkara is not consumed daily, but as and when required for acute discomfort. Any time you have recurring or persistent toothache, you should consult a dentist instead of constantly using the home remedies.

What makes Akarkara so tingling in the mouth? The root's main active compound, pellitorine, causes a characteristic effect when applied to the mouth, causing a warming, numbing effect, which is the desired, normal, and traditional effect for dental discomfort.

Is it safe to take Akarkara with pain medications available without a prescription for a toothache? This is generally okay for most people, but if you have any type of medical condition or are on any medications, please consult a pharmacist or doctor in case of any questions. Above all, do not postpone your appointment with a dentist who has a continuous tooth ache because you take a painkiller.

Conclusion

The traditional remedy for toothache of Akarkara is founded on its real effect and rapid action: the action of numbing upon contact with the mouth is unique. If used properly and sparingly and for brief periods of time to relieve mild discomfort, this has long been known as a traditional remedy. But it is no substitute for good dental hygiene and any toothache that is persistent, severe, or accompanied by swelling or fever should be referred to a dentist, not a home remedy. If you'd like to explore Akarkara for general vitality and other traditional uses, you can find it here: Akarkara at Wow Herbs.

Use code FIRST10 to enjoy 10% off your first order at Wow Herbs, Akarkara shop. Free delivery.

In addition to the health benefits, Akarkara is also used in beauty products to treat dry hair, dandruff, and scalp itching.Apart from the health benefits, Akarkara is also incorporated into beauty products to help get rid of dry hair, dandruff and itching of the scalp.

Disclaimer: This is for informational only. This is not a substitute for professional advice in dental and medical matters. Akarkara doesn't treat the cause of pain in dental cavities. Visit a dentist as soon as possible with a toothache that does not go away, that is severe or is getting worse, or that is accompanied by swelling or fever. Do not use if pregnant, breastfeeding or if you have an oral health condition; please check with your GP or dentist first.