Thyme-leaf Spurge
Euphorbia serpyllifolia
Euphorbia serpyllifolia is a plant traditionally used in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern folk medicine for digestive complaints. It has been utilized to support lactation, though its efficacy remains unproven by modern scientific research. Scientific evidence from animal studies indicates that an extract of Euphorbia serpyllifolia may increase serum prolactin levels, but no well-designed clinical trials have substantiated these traditional uses in humans. Safety is generally considered good with no major issues reported; however, the lack of extensive human studies means that potential side effects or interactions remain unclear. There are currently no recorded drug interactions associated with this plant.
- Traditionally for
- digestive complaints
- Traditions
- Western phytotherapy
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
Traditional use
What the science says
- Some evidence in animals suggests that Euphorbia extracts may increase serum prolactin, but no scientifically valid clinical trials support traditional uses as galactogogues.
Frequently asked questions
What is Thyme-leaf Spurge?
Thyme-leaf Spurge (Euphorbia serpyllifolia) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What is Thyme-leaf Spurge traditionally used for?
Traditional sources record Thyme-leaf Spurge for: digestive complaints. This reflects traditional use, not a proven medical treatment.
Which traditions use Thyme-leaf Spurge?
Thyme-leaf Spurge appears in these traditions in our sources: Western phytotherapy.
What does the scientific evidence say about Thyme-leaf Spurge?
1 sourced findings are recorded for Thyme-leaf Spurge; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Some evidence in animals suggests that Euphorbia extracts may increase serum prolactin, but no scientifically valid clinical trials support traditional uses as galactogogues.
How strong is the evidence for Thyme-leaf Spurge?
The strongest finding for Thyme-leaf Spurge carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Thyme-leaf Spurge safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Thyme-leaf Spurge in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Thyme-leaf Spurge interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Thyme-leaf Spurge in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Thyme-leaf Spurge?
Thyme-leaf Spurge is also known as: Euphorbe a feuilles de serpolet.
Is Thyme-leaf 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 Euphorbia literature abstract metadata
- T3 Euphorbia serpyllifolia CC BY-SA 4.0