Euphorbia
Euphorbia
Euphorbia is a genus of plants widely distributed across various regions. Traditionally, there are no specific recorded uses for Euphorbia in any known medical traditions. Scientific evidence suggests that 3,3'-Di-O-methylellagic acid from Euphorbia humifusa Willd may have potential anti-prostate cancer properties by inhibiting cell viability and inducing apoptosis through VDAC1 up-regulation. Additionally, extracts from several Euphorbia species, such as Euphorbia esula and Eupatorium altissimum, exhibit significant larvicidal activity against sheep gastrointestinal nematode larvae, indicating possible applications in parasitic control. Citronella essential oils derived from Euphorbia showed strong inhibition of weed germination and growth, while orange essential oils had moderate effects, suggesting potential for bioherbicide use. Three novel Xenodidymella species were identified from Euphorbia kopetdaghi and Thymus transcaspicus, expanding the genus' known host range. No major safety issues or recorded drug interactions have been noted for Euphorbia in current scientific literature.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- 3,3'-Di-O-methylellagic acid derived from Euphorbia humifusa Willd dose-dependently inhibits prostate cancer cell viability and induces apoptosis by up-regulating VDAC1 expression.
- Five extracts, including Euphorbia esula and Eupatorium altissimum, showed significant larvicidal activity against sheep gastrointestinal nematode larvae.
- Citronella essential oils showed strong inhibition of weed germination and growth, while orange essential oils had moderate effects, suggesting both could be used in bioherbicide strategies.
- Three novel Xenodidymella species were identified from Euphorbia kopetdaghi and Thymus transcaspicus, expanding the genus' known host range.
- The SNEDDS formulation of EK-16A significantly increased its stability and bioavailability in rats, and downregulated the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway in SHIV-infected rhesus macaques.
- Four compounds were identified as potentially active against NSCLC, with fraxetin showing the most potent inhibitory effect.
- Thirty-one plant families, including Euphorbia balsamifera, have shown antifungal and insecticidal properties against maize pests and diseases in laboratory conditions.
Frequently asked questions
What is Euphorbia?
Euphorbia (Euphorbia) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Euphorbia?
7 sourced findings are recorded for Euphorbia; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: 3,3'-Di-O-methylellagic acid derived from Euphorbia humifusa Willd dose-dependently inhibits prostate cancer cell viability and induces apoptosis by up-regulating VDAC1 expression.
How strong is the evidence for Euphorbia?
The strongest finding for Euphorbia carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Euphorbia safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Euphorbia in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Euphorbia interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Euphorbia in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Euphorbia?
Euphorbia is also known as: молочай, Euphorbe.
Is Euphorbia a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Medicinal Plants as Biopesticides Against Pests and Diseases of Maize (Zea mays L.) in Africa: Ethnobotanical Insights and Challenges. literature abstract metadata
- T2 3,3'-Di-O-methylellagic Acid Isolated from Euphorbia humifusa Willd Suppresses Prostate Cancer Cell Viability via Regulating VDAC1 Protein Expression. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Larvicidal activity of antiparasitic plant extracts against ovine gastrointestinal nematodes: an in vitro study. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Identification of anti-NSCLC bioactive compounds from Euphorbia helioscopia L. through integrated pharmacological classification and metabolomics analysis. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Preparation, Oral SNEDDS Formulation, and In Vivo Evaluation of the HIV-1 Latency-Reversing Agent EK-16A. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Endophytic Xenodidymella from Iranian medicinal plants: description of three novel species and a new host record. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Essential oils as bioherbicides: effects of orange and citronella oils on weed germination and early growth. literature abstract metadata