Herbarium of the Ancients — Detailed Monograph

Caper Spurge

Euphorbia lathyris

Read before use: the information below describes traditional and informational uses — it does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. In case of doubt, pregnancy, breastfeeding, ongoing treatment, or use in children, seek advice before use.

Reinforced precautions for this plant: The latex is highly irritating to skin and mucous membranes; it must never come into contact with the eyes or be ingested. All parts of the plant, particularly the seeds, are toxic and internal use is strictly inadvisable. Avoid use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, in children, and in cases of damaged or sensitive skin. Any external use must remain occasional, localized, and should only be considered after consultation with a healthcare professional or experienced herbalist.

Direct application of latex — Latex (milky sap from the stem)

Traditional topical application on warts

The stem is lightly incised to collect a drop of latex, applied with a stick directly onto the wart while carefully avoiding the surrounding healthy skin. This ancient practice, passed down orally, requires great caution and should only be reproduced with the approval of a healthcare professional. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Where to find it

Obtaining the plant

Caper Spurge can still be found growing wild in certain wastelands and gardens of Europe, but it is rarely sold in herbalist shops due to its toxicity; it is mainly found intentionally sown as a garden repellent plant.

Harvesting season

When to harvest it

The latex is preferably harvested in summer, when the stem is in full sap, by gently incising the plant just before the intended use.

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