A small plant growing in a garden, along a path, or in an open patch of soil can easily be mistaken for an ordinary weed. One example is Euphorbia hirta, a widespread herb that has a long history of traditional use in several regions.
The plant is sometimes known by names such as asthma plant, hairy spurge, or pillpod spurge. It is generally a low-growing herb with hairy stems, small leaves, and tiny clustered flowers. When its stems or leaves are damaged, the plant releases a characteristic milky latex.
A Plant With a Long Traditional History
Euphorbia hirta has been used in traditional herbal practices for generations. Historical and ethnobotanical sources describe its use for a variety of purposes, including traditional preparations associated with digestive and respiratory complaints. Researchers have also investigated extracts of the plant for several biological activities in laboratory and animal studies.
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