Cactus spurge
Euphorbia ingens
Euphorbia ingens is a plant native to Southern Africa, particularly found in arid regions. While it has not been traditionally used for medicinal purposes, contact with the plant can cause various ocular issues such as conjunctivitis and keratitis, which have been documented in field observations. Scientifically, novel fungal species have been described from different hosts and environments across multiple countries, but there is no definitive evidence linking these fungi to the observed die-off of Euphorbia mauritanica plants. The plant has not shown any major safety issues or reported drug interactions as of current knowledge.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- Novel fungal species were described from various hosts and environments across multiple countries.
- Euphorbia ingens contact can cause various ocular issues including conjunctivitis and keratitis.
- Four microfungi were isolated from dying Euphorbia mauritanica plants, but none were definitively linked to the large-scale die-off observed in the field.
- Novel fungal species were described from various countries and plant hosts.
Frequently asked questions
What is Cactus spurge?
Cactus spurge (Euphorbia ingens) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Cactus spurge?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Cactus spurge; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Novel fungal species were described from various hosts and environments across multiple countries.
How strong is the evidence for Cactus spurge?
The strongest finding for Cactus spurge carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Cactus spurge safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Cactus spurge in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Cactus spurge interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Cactus spurge in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Cactus spurge?
Cactus spurge is also known as: Молочай великий.
Is Cactus spurge a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Fungal Planet description sheets: 1182-1283. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Keratouveitis and conjunctivitis caused by Euphorbia ingens: A case review. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Fungal Planet description sheets: 1284-1382. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Microfungi associated with dying Euphorbia mauritanica in South Africa and their relative pathogenicity. literature abstract metadata