Historical Herbal Uses
Because of the disruption of skin and blister formation, dermal application of the milky sap has been used as a remedy for skin warts, ringworm rashes, and for podiatric corns. Its gastrointestinal effects have also been used for the treatment of cholera, and as a purgative, an anthelmintic, and a cathartic, and also for purported anticancer properties.3
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ACEP Now: Vol 42 – No 03 – March 2023
Dr. Hack is chief of the division of medical toxicology and vice chair for research at East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina.
References
- Wilken K, Schempp CM. [Toxic phytodermatitis caused by Euphorbia helioscopia L. (sun spurge)]. [Article in German] Hautarzt. 2005;56(10):955-957.
- Eke T, Al-Husainy S, Raynor MK. The spectrum of ocular inflammation caused by Euphorbia plant sap. Arch Ophthalmol. 2000;118(1):13–16.
- Webster GL. Irritant plants in the spurge family (Euphorbiaceae). Clin Dermatol. 1986;4(2):36-45. doi: 10.1016/0738-081x(86)90062-3.
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