Botanical Overview
Euphorbia hirta, belonging to the Euphorbiaceae family, is a widely distributed medicinal plant known by common names such as asthma-plant, milk weed, and gatherweed. The whole plant and leaves are primarily used in traditional medicine across tropical regions of Asia, Africa, Australia, and the Americas.
Energetics
This herb is considered cooling and drying in nature, with a bitter and acrid taste. It has a relaxing tonicity and primarily influences the qi aspect according to traditional energetic frameworks.
Primary Actions
- Antiasthmatic
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antimicrobial
- Antidiarrheal
- Diuretic
- Expectorant
- Spasmolytic
Indications
Western
- Asthma
- Bronchitis
- Diarrhea
- Dysentery
- Skin infections
- Menstrual irregularities
Syndromes
- Respiratory spasms
- Gastrointestinal infections
- Urinary tract infections
- Inflammatory skin conditions
TCM
- Cough
- Wheezing
- Dysentery
- Skin rashes
Syndromes
- Lung heat with phlegm
- Damp-heat dysentery
- Wind-heat skin disorders
Ayurveda
- Asthma
- Diarrhea
- Skin diseases
Syndromes
- Kapha vata disorders
- Ama-related digestive issues
Unani
- Respiratory distress
- Gastrointestinal disturbances
- Skin eruptions
Syndromes
- Safra imbalance
- Balgham disorders
Constituents & Mechanisms
Euphorbia hirta contains phytochemical families such as flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, triterpenoids, polyphenols, and saponins, contributing to its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and spasmolytic properties.
Dosage & Preparations
- Decoction: 10-15 g, 2-3 times daily
- Infusion: 2-5 g in water, 1-3 times daily
- Powder: 1-3 g, 1-2 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
The herb is generally safe in traditional dosages but should be used cautiously during pregnancy due to insufficient safety data. Excessive intake may cause gastrointestinal upset or allergic reactions. Avoid if hypersensitive to plants in the Euphorbiaceae family.
Astrological Correspondences
No well-documented planetary or elemental rulers are established for Euphorbia hirta in traditional esoteric sources.
Selected References
- Euphorbia hirta in traditional medicine – Medicinal Plants: Chemistry and Properties, CRC Press
- Euphorbia hirta L. – Plant Resources of Tropical Africa 11(1): Medicinal plants 1
- Euphorbia hirta L. – WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants, Vol. 2
- Traditional uses of Euphorbia hirta – Ethnobotany of India, Volume 3