Snakeweed

Euphorbia hirta

NAME: Euphorbia hirta

FAMILY: Euphorbiaceae (Spurge family)

COMMON NAMES: Asthma-plant, Pill-bearing Spurge, Snakeweed

LOCAL NAMES: N/A

MORPHOLOGICAL DESCRIPTION: Euphorbia hirta is a small, annual herbaceous plant that grows up to 30 centimeters in height. It has a hairy or bristly stem and branches. The leaves are arranged in opposite pairs, elliptic to obovate in shape, and have serrated margins. The plant produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are surrounded by cup-like structures called cyathia. The cyathia are yellow-green in color and contain the reproductive structures of the plant.

USEFUL PART(s): The whole plant of Euphorbia hirta has traditional uses in various systems of medicine.

GENERAL USES:

  1. Traditional Medicine: Euphorbia hirta has a long history of use in traditional medicine in different parts of the world. Various parts of the plant, including the leaves, stems, and roots, have been used to treat respiratory conditions, digestive disorders, skin ailments, and other health issues. However, it's important to note that the plant contains toxic compounds and should be used with caution and under professional guidance.

  2. Ethnobotanical Uses: In addition to its medicinal uses, Euphorbia hirta has cultural and ethnobotanical significance in different regions. It has been used in rituals, ceremonies, and as a component in traditional practices.

GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION: Euphorbia hirta is native to tropical and subtropical regions around the world. It can be found in various countries across Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Americas. It is a common weed in disturbed areas, waste places, and agricultural fields.

WHY IS IT GREEN? Like other plants, Euphorbia hirta 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 hirta can be considered an invasive weed in certain regions. It has the ability to colonize disturbed areas and agricultural fields, competing with native plants and reducing crop yields. Its rapid growth and prolific seed production contribute to its ability to spread and establish in new areas.

FUN FACT: Euphorbia hirta is commonly known as the Asthma-plant due to its traditional use in treating respiratory conditions. However, despite its name, there is limited scientific evidence to support its effectiveness in managing asthma symptoms. The plant's common name reflects its historical use rather than its proven medical benefits.

Further Reading:

  1. "Euphorbia: World Botanical Knowledge Base" by Urs Eggli

  2. "Weeds of the United States and Canada" by John M. DiTomaso and Evelyn A. Healy

  3. "Medicinal Plants in Tropical West Africa" by Maurice M. Iwu