Euphorbia

Last Editorial Review: 6/11/2021
Other Name(s):

Asthmaplant, Chamaesyce hirta, Euforbia, Euphorbe, Euphorbia hirta, Euphorbia capitulata, Euphorbia pilulifera, Euphorbium Officinarum, Pillbearing Spurge, Snakeweed.

Overview

Euphorbia is an herb. The parts of the plant that grow above the ground are used to make medicine.

Euphorbia is used for breathing disorders including asthma, bronchitis, and chest congestion. It is also used for mucus in the nose and throat, throat spasms, hay fever, and tumors. Some people use it to cause vomiting.

In India, it is also used for treating worms, severe diarrhea (dysentery), gonorrhea, and digestive problems.

How does it work?

Some researchers have studied how euphorbia might work in animals, but there isn't enough information to know how euphorbia might work in people.

SLIDESHOW

Vitamin D Deficiency: How Much Vitamin D Is Enough? See Slideshow

Uses & Effectiveness

Insufficient Evidence to Rate Effectiveness for...

More evidence is needed to rate the effectiveness of euphorbia for these uses.

Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database rates effectiveness based on scientific evidence according to the following scale: Effective, Likely Effective, Possibly Effective, Possibly Ineffective, Likely Ineffective, and Insufficient Evidence to Rate (detailed description of each of the ratings).

Side Effects

There isn't enough information available to know if euphorbia is safe.

When taken by mouth, it can cause some side effects such as nausea and vomiting.

Don't touch the fresh herb. It can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions.

QUESTION

Next to red peppers, you can get the most vitamin C from ________________. See Answer

Special Precautions & Warnings

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: It is POSSIBLY UNSAFE to take euphorbia by mouth if you are pregnant. There is some evidence that it might cause the uterus to contract, and this could cause a miscarriage.

Stomach or intestinal problems: Euphorbia can irritate the stomach and intestines. Don't use it if you have a stomach or intestinal disorder.

Dosing

The appropriate dose of euphorbia depends on several factors such as the user's age, health, and several other conditions. At this time there is not enough scientific information to determine an appropriate range of doses for euphorbia. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult your pharmacist or physician or other healthcare professional before using.

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References

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