Herbalists use the plant to soothe abrasions, toothaches, rheumatism, and depression. It is also used as a mouthwash for canker sores and toothaches. The Aztecs used its resin to treat gout, ulcers, skin diseases, wounds, and toothaches. Those with phossy jaw would usually begin suffering painful toothaches and swelling of the gums. Both Native Americans and Japanese medicine use tea gargles to treat toothaches and sore throats. The ancient Greeks used the root to treat dysentery, toothaches and animal bites. The crushed leaves were used as a poultice to relieve toothaches. Proper oral hygiene helps to prevent toothaches by preventing dental disease. Mashes of "tsampa" and cumin are sometimes applied to toothaches or other sore spots. The suffering associated with burns, toothaches, or crushing injury are caused by C fibre activity. Early American settlers used the plant for its alleged properties of curing toothaches. Among the early Filipino to act as "dental practitioners" and "curers of toothaches" were barbers. The seeds of "S. macrocarpon" crushed to treat toothaches.