Euphorbia peplus
- Origin
- Europe
- Part used
- See detailed notebook
- Tradition
- Traditional ethnobotany
A discreet plant of gardens and waste ground, petty spurge once accompanied country folk in treating minor skin lesions, by means of its acrid, milky latex. This small annual plant, common throughout Europe, belongs to a family whose traditional use has always been surrounded by great caution, so potent is its sap.
Traditional uses
Application to warts and growths
The fresh latex was traditionally applied, in very small amounts and locally, to warts or small skin growths, a practice reported in the European countryside for centuries.
Minor skin lesions
A folk use of the sap on certain keratoses or superficial skin marks is reported, always in a very localized and occasional way.
Use on livestock
In certain rural regions, the latex was used empirically on animals' skin for similar external skin conditions.
Before you use it
The latex is blistering and irritating: it must never be ingested, nor brought near the eyes, mucous membranes, or open wounds. Toxic if taken internally: contraindicated during pregnancy or breastfeeding, in children, and whenever there is the slightest uncertainty. Skin use should remain strictly local and occasional, under supervision, and stopped in the event of redness, burning, or an excessive reaction. Keep out of reach of children and pets; wash hands thoroughly after any handling.
The detailed notebook
- Prepared as a paste or decoction
- Traditional duration of use
- Known contraindications
- Related species and their uses
Where to find it
Partner herbalists — available with the detailed notebook.
Sources
PFAF