Euphorbia hirta, known locally in the Maldives as Kiruthona, is a small annual herb valued for its medicinal properties. Commonly referred to as the Asthma herb, Garden spurge, or Snake weed, this plant has a significant role in traditional medicine, especially for treating respiratory issues. Native to the tropical regions of America, Euphorbia hirta has become widespread in low-altitude, open areas across the tropics and subtropics, including the Maldives.
Synonyms:
Chamaesyce gemella (Lag.) Small, Chamaesyce hirta (L.) Small
Family:
Euphorbiaceae
Local name (Dhivehi):
Kiruthona
English names:
Asthma herb, Garden spurge, Snake weed
Description
Euphorbia hirta is a slender, suberect herb, characterized by its coarse, reddish-yellow pubescent stems and branches. The leaves are arranged in pairs, each measuring approximately 1–2.5 cm in length and 0.7–1.5 cm in width. They are broadly oblong to elliptic-lanceolate in shape, with serrated edges and a distinctive oblique base. The flowers, known as cyathia, cluster in pairs or singly in the leaf axils, each featuring minute involucres and five red glands. The plant produces tiny red seeds enclosed within pubescent capsules, which contribute to its spread throughout its native and introduced ranges.
Scientific Classification
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Clade: Tracheophytes
- Clade: Angiosperms
- Clade: Eudicots
- Clade: Rosids
- Order: Malpighiales
- Family: Euphorbiaceae
- Genus: Euphorbia
- Species: E. hirta
Flowering and Fruiting
This plant flowers and produces fruit throughout the year, allowing it to establish itself easily in disturbed areas and open fields.
Native Range
Originally from tropical America, Euphorbia hirta has spread widely and can now be found across the tropics and subtropics.
Occurrence in the Maldives
Kiruthona is very common in the Maldives, thriving in open areas where it has become a recognizable part of the local flora.
Uses
Euphorbia hirta has long been used in traditional medicine for its purported healing properties:
- Respiratory Health: The plant decoction is commonly used to treat asthma and chronic bronchial infections.
- Digestive Health: When prepared as a tincture, Euphorbia hirta is used to relieve colic, dysentery, and genitourinary tract issues.
- Skin Conditions: The plant’s latex is applied to warts and ringworm, where it serves as a topical remedy.
References
- “Common Plants of the Maldives”
- Green Institute https://greeninstitute.ng/plants/tag/Asthma-plant
- “Weeds of the United States and Canada” by John M. DiTomaso and Evelyn A. Healy
- Wikipedia: Euphorbia hirta
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