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Chinese Spurge (Euphorbia pekinensis)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Euphorbiaceae
  • Common Names: Chinese Spurge, Peking Spurge, Da Ji (Chinese)
  • Parts Used: Root

Description

Euphorbia pekinensis is a perennial herb native to China, commonly found in moist environments. It has been a key herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for centuries, particularly valued for its strong purgative, diuretic, and detoxifying properties. However, it must be used with caution due to its potent effects.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used in TCM as a powerful cathartic and diuretic.
  • Traditionally employed to treat edema, ascites, and constipation.
  • Applied externally for abscesses, sores, and inflammatory conditions.
  • Used cautiously due to its strong purgative and potentially toxic effects.

Constituents

  • Diterpenoid esters
  • Flavonoids
  • Saponins
  • Tannins
  • Resinous compounds

Actions

  • Drastic purgative
  • Diuretic
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Antimicrobial
  • Detoxifying
  • Antitumor (under research)

Medicinal Uses

1. Strong Laxative and Purgative:
Traditionally used for severe constipation and fluid retention, but requires careful dosage due to its drastic effects.

2. Treatment of Edema and Ascites:
Employed in TCM to drain excess fluid accumulation from the body.

3. External Application for Skin Conditions:
Used as a poultice or wash for boils, abscesses, and ulcers.

4. Antimicrobial and Detoxifying Properties:
Helps eliminate toxins from the body, particularly in cases of severe congestion or pathogenic dampness.

5. Experimental Antitumor Use:
Research is exploring its potential in cancer treatments due to certain bioactive compounds.

Preparation and Dosage

Decoction:

  • 1-3 grams of dried root per 3 cups of water; simmered for 20-30 minutes. Used under professional supervision.

Tincture:

  • Not commonly used due to potency; consult a qualified herbalist.

Poultice (Topical Use):

  • Crushed root applied externally to wounds or sores, diluted to avoid irritation.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Strictly contraindicated due to its strong purgative nature.
  • Gastrointestinal Sensitivity: May cause severe diarrhea and cramping; should be used only under expert guidance.
  • Kidney Disorders: Use cautiously due to its diuretic effects.
  • Toxicity Concerns: Overuse can lead to gastrointestinal distress, dehydration, and toxicity.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): Cold and bitter; enters the Lung, Spleen, and Kidney meridians. Drains excess fluid, clears heat, and expels toxicity.
  • Traditional Western Herbalism: Rarely used due to its potent effects, but comparable to other strong purgatives.
  • Ayurveda: May be considered useful for Kapha-related conditions but should be used with extreme caution.

Combinations

  • For Edema and Fluid Retention: Combine with fu ling (Poria) and bai zhu (Atractylodes).
  • For Detoxification: Combine with dandelion root and burdock.
  • For External Skin Applications: Combine with calendula and plantain.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Root is collected in autumn and dried for medicinal use.
  • Drying: Air dry in a well-ventilated, shaded area.
  • Storage: Store dried root in an airtight container away from moisture and light.

Modern Research

Studies suggest Euphorbia pekinensis has potent antimicrobial and antitumor potential, but its toxicity limits its application in mainstream medicine.

Chinese Spurge remains a powerful but potentially dangerous herb, valued in traditional medicine for its purgative, diuretic, and detoxifying properties. It should only be used under expert guidance.