Synopsis

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

Euphorbia species have a long history of traditional use for treating external ulcerations and wounds. In various traditional medicine systems, including Ayurveda and folk medicine in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, preparations made from Euphorbia latex or extracts are applied topically to ulcerations, sores, and skin lesions. The rationale has often been based on the plant’s caustic, irritant latex, which was thought to remove dead tissue and promote healing. However, the latex can also be highly irritating and even toxic to skin, leading to inflammation or worsening of wounds if not used carefully. There are anecdotal and ethnobotanical reports supporting this use, but robust clinical trials or controlled studies demonstrating efficacy are lacking. Some in vitro and animal studies suggest that certain Euphorbia species possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that could be relevant to wound healing, but this evidence is preliminary and not specific to external ulcerations in humans. Overall, the use of Euphorbia for external ulcerations is primarily justified by tradition, with limited and low-quality evidence to support its safety and efficacy. Caution is advised due to the potential for adverse reactions.

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Other ingredients used for Ulcerations (external)

Other health conditions supported by Euphorbia (unspecified)

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