Ctenium aromaticum is a species of grass known by the common name toothache grass. It is native to the southeastern United States, where it grows on the coastal plain.[1]
This is a perennial grass that forms clumps of stems reaching 1mto1.5mm (03feetto04.9feetm) in maximum height. The leaves are up to 46cm (18inches) long. The inflorescence is a panicle with one branch that is up to 15cm (06inches) long and lined on one side with two rows of spikelets. Each spikelet is roughly 1cm (00inches) long.[1]
It is not known whether or not the grass was ever used as a remedy for toothache. It has, however, been used as a sialagogue, an agent that increases saliva. The crushed roots have a strong scent.[2] The lower part of the stem produces a numbing sensation when it is chewed.[3] The agents responsible for this action are isobutylamides.[4]