Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Euphorbia species have a long history of traditional use in various cultures, particularly in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, for treating infections and related ailments such as skin infections, wounds, and respiratory illnesses. The milky latex or extracts from different Euphorbia plants have been applied topically or ingested in folk medicine as antimicrobial or anti-inflammatory remedies. Ethnobotanical surveys from regions such as Nigeria, India, and Iran document the use of Euphorbia species like Euphorbia hirta, Euphorbia tirucalli, and others for managing infectious diseases, including bacterial and fungal skin infections, diarrhea, and respiratory tract infections.

However, while some in vitro studies have identified antimicrobial activity in extracts from certain Euphorbia species, these findings are preliminary and not broadly validated in clinical trials. The majority of the evidence supporting the use of Euphorbia for infections is therefore traditional, with only limited scientific support from laboratory studies. There is little to no robust clinical data confirming efficacy or safety in humans for infectious diseases. Safety is also a concern, as the latex can be highly irritating or toxic. In summary, the primary justification for using Euphorbia against infection is traditional, with modest laboratory evidence and no substantial clinical validation.

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