Euphorbia hirta is a strange, hairy herbaceous plant that is often found growing on the roadsides in tropical parts of the world. Considered to be native to India, this herb/weed has now become a pantropical species, which makes it very easy for its popularity to spread. It is primarily used as a medicinal herb due to its unique chemical structure and powerful effects on the body. It has been used traditionally for thousands of years, and modern research is still being conducted to fully understand all the chemical pathways that this herb can affect.

All parts of the plant are effective in their own way, and are used for specific ailments. The leaves, flowers, and sap from this herbaceous plant, which is also commonly called an “asthma weed”, are all used in different ways and in different forms, depending on the ailment at hand.

Health benefits

 Immune System: Euphorbia hirta can actually impact the immune system in a number of ways, but one of the popular traditional uses of the herb was to treat eye infections. By using the flowers of the plant, a decoction could be made that soothed eye infections and reduced the signs of conjunctivitis. This treatment is still in used today.

Anti-inflammatory: One of the other popular names for this herb is snakeroot, as it can quickly neutralize toxins and reduce inflammation at the site of a snakebite.

Anti-parasitic: Euphorbia hirta also functions as an anthelmintic, meaning that it can help to eliminate parasites and intestinal worms, thereby preventing the complications that these sorts of foreign bodies can cause.

Respiratory Health: When it comes to respiratory conditions, euphorbia hirta can be a very effective remedy. The anti-inflammatory nature of the herb makes it ideal for soothing bronchial irritation, asthma, sore throats, and chronic coughing, as well as conditions like bronchitis.

Sexual Health: Euphorbia hirta has a number of effects when it comes to sexual health, but its antiviral and antibacterial qualities make it very effective in treating venereal diseases and urinary tract infections. This is a traditional use and also a modern one.

Sexual Activity: In males, Euphorbia hirta has long been used as a sexual stimulant, both to increase libido and boost fertility. For males who want to boost their sex drive and improve their chances of starting a family, Euphorbia hirta can be a great solution. It can even help to prevent premature ejaculation! For women, Euphorbia hirta can stimulate the production of breast milk. However, it should not be given to pregnant women, as it can cause miscarriages.

Gastrointestinal Issues: Aside from eliminating parasites and intestinal worms, Euphorbia hirta can also soothe the gastrointestinal system and eliminate symptoms of diarrhea or dysentery. By soothing the gut walls, Euphorbia hirta can restore your bowel movements to a more normal level and prevent any additional pain or discomfort.

Skin Health: The salves made from Euphorbia hirta can be applied directly to the skin on boils, wounds, rashes, burns, and other marks. This solution can speed the healing process by stimulating blood flow to the skin, stimulate the regrowth of new cells, and even contribute its antioxidant capacity to promoting healthier looking skin. It can eliminate signs of aging and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and sun damage.

A Final Word of Warning: It is not a good idea to consume large amounts of the herb orally, as it can induce vomiting, in some cases. Also, as mentioned above, pregnant women should avoid use of this herb. Other side effects are mild and infrequent. As always, speak with a trained herbalist or your medical practitioner to ensure that you are a good candidate for adding a powerful herbal remedy to your diet or health plan.