What is Euphorbia?

Euphorbia is the name of the genus for a group of approximately 2,100 plants. Depending on the species, plants of the genus Euphorbia are from Africa, Asia, parts of Europe and the eastern and southwestern parts of the United States. Plants can be tree, cactus or even similar weeds. The most famous types are Euphorbia pulcherrima or poinsettia. Many types of Euphorbia are toxic, but some species are used in alternative medicine practices.

Many types of Euphorbia can cause skin and eyes to irritate for humans and animals. In fact, there have even reported that if a large part of a large plant is cut, it can release toxins into the air, causing humans and animals to have respiratory problems. As a result, caution should be used when handling these plants.

One kind of euphorbia , e. Ingens can grow sufficiently large enough to resemble and tree, but on closer examination is tabout quite similar cactus or juicy. It can grow to 40 feet (about 12.2 m) tall and has yellow flowers that bloom during the winter. It is also called the candlestick tree and, like many plants in the genus, has a toxic latex sap.

Some plants in the family euphorbia are succulents like e. This plant is often called basketball plant or Gingham plant. It is usually masked by its sandy surrounding, growing preferably in South Africa. It creates fine flowers with a diameter of approximately 0.10 inches (about 2.5 mm).

poinsettia or e. Pulcherrima is a popular plant during the Christmas season, especially in the United States. It is also quite poisonous, especially if the animal consumes the leaves of the plant. Usually it has red leaves that are large and bold yellow flowers that grow in clusters.

weed-like e. Peplus originated in Europe butHe is now considered invasive in many areas throughout North America. It is also known as weeds with cancer or radial weeds. It can grow to 12 inches (about 30.5 cm) tall and has green flowers that mix with green juicy leaves. Although the sap of this plant is toxic, it is often used by practicing homeopathic medicine to remove warts, sunspots and age spots. Some research has indicated that SAP can also be useful for skin cancer treatment.

Another plant in this family, e. Pekinensis or Beijing Spurge, is often used in Chinese medicine. Sometimes it is used as an expectorant to calm cough. In addition, it is assumed that the roots reduce swelling in the body and face.