NAME: Euphorbia balsamifera
FAMILY: Euphorbiaceae (Spurge family)
COMMON NAMES: Sweet Tabernaemontana, Balsam Spurge
LOCAL NAMES: N/A
MORPHOLOGICAL DESCRIPTION: Euphorbia balsamifera is a succulent shrub that typically grows up to 1 meter in height. It has thick, fleshy stems with numerous branches. The leaves are small, alternate, and oval-shaped, arranged along the stems. The plant produces clusters of small, greenish-yellow flowers with a distinctive appearance. The flowers lack petals but have showy bracts that resemble petals, giving them a decorative look. When the stems are cut or damaged, a milky sap is exuded.
USEFUL PART(s): The sap or resin of Euphorbia balsamifera is the most useful part of the plant.
GENERAL USES:
Traditional Medicine: The sap of Euphorbia balsamifera has been used in traditional medicine for various purposes. It is believed to have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties. The sap is applied topically to treat skin conditions, wounds, and insect bites. However, caution should be exercised as the sap can cause skin irritation in some individuals.
Incense and Perfume: The resinous sap of Euphorbia balsamifera has a pleasant, balsamic fragrance. It is sometimes used as an ingredient in incense blends and perfumes to add a unique scent.
GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION: Euphorbia balsamifera is native to the dry regions of Africa, including countries like Sudan, Ethiopia, and Somalia. It is well-adapted to arid and semi-arid environments and can be found in desert scrublands and rocky slopes.
WHY IS IT GREEN? Euphorbia balsamifera, like other plants, appears green due to the presence of chlorophyll. Chlorophyll is a pigment that absorbs light energy from the sun, which is then used in the process of photosynthesis to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen. The green color is a result of chlorophyll absorbing blue and red light and reflecting green light.
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: Euphorbia balsamifera is a hardy plant species that can thrive in challenging environments. It is drought-tolerant and can withstand high temperatures and limited water availability. In some regions, it is considered an invasive species, able to colonize disturbed habitats and outcompete native vegetation. As with all species, caution should be exercised to prevent the spread of invasive populations and protect native ecosystems.
FUN FACT: The milky sap or latex produced by Euphorbia balsamifera and other Euphorbia species contains toxic compounds known as diterpene esters. These compounds can cause skin irritation and are poisonous if ingested. However, some species of Euphorbia, such as the Euphorbia tirucalli (Pencil Cactus), have been used in traditional medicine for their medicinal properties when prepared and administered properly.
Further Reading:
"Euphorbia: World Botanical Knowledge Base" by Urs Eggli
"Medicinal Plants of East Africa" by John B. W. Kokwaro
"Euphorbias of Southern Africa: A Guide to the Species of Euphorbia and other Succulent Euphorbiaceae" by Gideon F. Smith and Neil R. Crouch