African milkbush

Euphorbia tirucalli, commonly known as the pencil cactus or milk bush, is a plant native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, Australia, and South America. Traditionally, its use has not been extensively recorded in any specific medical practices. Scientific studies have shown that stem extracts from Euphorbia tirucalli exhibit cytotoxic activity against breast cancer cells, with lupeol and β-amyrin demonstrating strong binding affinities to relevant targets. However, the evidence is preliminary and more research is needed to confirm these findings. In a study involving rats, latex ingestion was observed to alter cardiac hemodynamics and increase oxidative stress without affecting blood pressure. The plant has also been found to contain compounds with varying antimicrobial activities against different strains of Klebsiella pneumoniae. No major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded for Euphorbia tirucalli; however, further research is necessary to fully understand its potential effects and applications.

Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.