Introduction
The plant you’ve shown in the pictures is Euphorbia hirta, commonly known as Asthma Weed, Snake Weed, Tawa-tawa, or Dudhi. It is a small annual herb that grows widely in tropical and subtropical regions, often seen in gardens, sidewalks, and farmlands as a wild weed. Despite being considered a weed, Euphorbia hirta has been used in traditional medicine for centuries due to its wide range of health benefits.
It belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family, which includes plants known for their medicinal properties. One of its key characteristics is the presence of a milky latex sap, typical of Euphorbia species.
Botanical Description
- Stem: Reddish, hairy, and branching close to the ground.
- Leaves: Opposite, oval to oblong, finely serrated edges, often with a purplish blotch in the middle.
- Flowers: Small, clustered, and greenish-yellow to reddish.
- Growth Habit: Prostrate (lying flat on the ground), spreading up to 40 cm in diameter.
Common Names Around the World
- English: Asthma Weed, Snake Weed, Garden Spurge
- India: Dudhi, Dugdhika, Barokhi
- Philippines: Tawa-tawa
- Africa: Amampong, Inhlakoti
- Latin America: Hierba de Sapo
History and Traditional Uses
Euphorbia hirta has a long history of use in folk medicine across Asia, Africa, and South America.
- In Ayurveda (India), it has been used for treating respiratory problems, digestive issues, and skin conditions.
- In the Philippines, it gained popularity as a supportive remedy for dengue fever, believed to help improve platelet count.
- In African traditional medicine, it has been used to treat wounds, gastrointestinal disorders, and infections.
- Ancient healers also valued it as a natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial herb.
Nutritional and Chemical Composition
Euphorbia hirta contains a variety of bioactive compounds that give it medicinal power:
- Flavonoids (quercetin, luteolin) – antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
- Tannins – antimicrobial, helps with diarrhea
- Saponins – immune boosting, expectorant
- Alkaloids – therapeutic properties for asthma and cough
- Phenolic acids – antioxidant protection
Health Benefits of Euphorbia Hirta
1. Respiratory Health (Asthma & Bronchitis)
- Traditionally known as Asthma Weed because it relieves symptoms of asthma, wheezing, cough, and bronchitis.
- Acts as a bronchodilator, helping open airways.
2. Dengue Fever Support
- Popular in the Philippines as a herbal remedy for dengue fever.
- Believed to increase platelet count and support recovery.
3. Digestive System Benefits
- Treats diarrhea, dysentery, intestinal worms, and stomach cramps.
- Its tannins help reduce intestinal inflammation.
4. Skin Healing
- Applied as a paste for wounds, boils, warts, and fungal infections.
- Its latex sap has antimicrobial properties.
5. Anti-inflammatory and Pain Relief
- Reduces swelling, pain, and inflammation in conditions like arthritis and injuries.
6. Urinary and Reproductive Health
- Used in traditional medicine for urinary tract infections (UTIs).
- Some cultures use it to regulate menstruation and treat female reproductive issues.
7. Immune Boosting & Antimicrobial
- Contains natural compounds that fight bacteria, viruses, and parasites.
Methods of Preparation
1. Herbal Tea / Decoction
- Take a handful of fresh Euphorbia hirta leaves.
- Wash thoroughly.
- Boil in 2–3 cups of water for 10–15 minutes.
- Strain and drink warm (1–2 times daily).
2. Infusion
- Dried leaves can be steeped in hot water like regular tea.
3. Paste or Poultice
- Fresh leaves are crushed and applied directly to wounds, boils, or skin infections.
4. Juice Extract
- Fresh leaves are squeezed to obtain juice, consumed in small amounts for asthma or cough relief.
Nutritional & Medicinal Value (Per 100g of Fresh Leaves Approx.)
- Calories: 40 kcal
- Protein: 3 g
- Vitamin C: 35 mg (strong antioxidant)
- Calcium: 120 mg (good for bones)
- Iron: 8 mg (helps in anemia prevention)
- Phytochemicals: Flavonoids, Tannins, Alkaloids, Saponins
Safety, Side Effects & Precautions
- Latex sap can irritate skin or eyes – handle carefully.
- Should be consumed in moderation (large doses may cause nausea or vomiting).
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid use without medical supervision.
- Always consult a doctor before using it as a treatment for serious conditions (like dengue)
Cultural and Medicinal Importance
Euphorbia hirta is a weed with purpose. While many see it as just another unwanted garden plant, traditional healers and herbalists recognize it as a natural pharmacy. Its reputation as an “herbal lifesaver” during dengue outbreaks made it highly respected in several Asian countries.
Conclusion
Euphorbia hirta, or Asthma Weed, is more than just a common roadside plant—it is a powerful medicinal herb with centuries of traditional use. From easing asthma and coughs to supporting dengue recovery and healing wounds, it has proven its worth in natural medicine.
Though modern research is still exploring its full potential, traditional knowledge highlights its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting properties. Like all herbs, it should be used responsibly, with awareness of possible side effects.
In short: What looks like a weed under your feet might actually be a healing gift of nature