African spurge
Euphorbia resinifera
Euphorbia resinifera is a plant native to arid regions of Africa and the Middle East. While it has not been traditionally used in any known medicinal practices, scientific research has shown promise. A study sequenced its complete chloroplast genome, contributing to understanding its phylogenetic relationships and conservation status. The latex from Euphorbia resinifera contains phorbol esters, including Resiniferatoxin and Euphol, which have been identified as potential inhibitors of the androgen receptor and may show pain-relieving properties for treating osteoarthritis. However, the scientific evidence is limited and further research is needed to confirm these findings. No major safety concerns or known drug interactions have been recorded, but caution should be exercised due to the potency of its active compounds.
- 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
- The study identified several phorbol esters from Euphorbia resinifera with varying aromatase inhibitory activities, highlighting the importance of ester chain length and molecular interactions.
- This study identified Resiniferatoxin and Euphol from Euphorbia resinifera as potential AR inhibitors with favorable binding poses, though further validation is needed.
- The complete chloroplast genome of Euphorbia resinifera was sequenced, providing new insights into its phylogenetic relationships and conservation status.
- The study identified various components in Euphorbia resinifera latex, including resiniferatoxin, which shows pain-relieving potential.
Frequently asked questions
What is African spurge?
African spurge (Euphorbia resinifera) 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 African spurge?
4 sourced findings are recorded for African spurge; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The study identified several phorbol esters from Euphorbia resinifera with varying aromatase inhibitory activities, highlighting the importance of ester chain length and molecular interactions.
How strong is the evidence for African spurge?
The strongest finding for African spurge carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is African spurge safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for African spurge in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does African spurge interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for African spurge in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of African spurge?
African spurge is also known as: Молочай смолоносный, Euphorbe résinifère.
Is African 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 Chemical Components of the Dried Latex of Euphorbia resinifera Berg and Its Medicinal Features. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Computational discovery of resiniferatoxin and euphol as potential androgen receptor inhibitors for prostate cancer therapy. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Exploring novel aromatase cytochrome P450-binding ligands: Molecular docking and QSAR study of phorbol esters as aromatase inhibitors. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Complete chloroplast genome of Euphorbia resinifera: overcoming biogeographical bias in phylogenetic inference and establishing a conservation genomics framework for threatened North-West African cactiform species. literature abstract metadata