The Szechuan Button is a flowering plant native to Brazil. As the name implies, there is something particularly unique about these flowers. I came across this little effervescent, efflorescence bud traveling through Amsterdam. It was served with a shot (you eat the button first, then chase it with the shot). The sensation is like having your mouth covered in local anesthetic. An intense tingling, not unlike pop rocks, accompanied with increased salivation which lasts about five minutes. Oh and you also trip balls (optional). The culprit responsible for this effect is the fatty acid, Spilanthol. The flower is actually used as "a traditional remedy for stammering, toothache, stomatitis, and throat complaints." So intrigued I decided to grow it myself. Apart from eating the bud alone, you can also include its leaves in salads. I have even dried out the flowers and mixed them in tea. It makes an interesting conversational piece and is fun to experiment with.
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