A comprehensive literature review on Euphorbia tithymaloides: A rare medicinal plant

Euphorbia tithymaloides is a medicinal plant within the diverse Euphorbia genus, comprising around 2,000 species worldwide. This plant is also called Devil’s Backbone. Traditionally recognized for its therapeutic properties, it has been used in folk medicine to treat inflammation, fever, tumors, and various skin conditions including warts, ringworm, insect bites, and callouses. Its sap is also applied for ailments like earaches, toothaches, skin cancer, and umbilical hernias. The plant contains notable antioxidants such as Kaempferol derivatives, Quercitrin, Isoquercitrin, and Scopoletin, alongside compounds like steroids, tannins, coumarins, and saponins. Scientific studies reveal a wide spectrum of pharmacological activities, such as antiinflammatory, antidiabetic, anticancer, antimicrobial, and antioxidant effects. Data was collected from databases including Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct and botanical references. Despite its medicinal relevance, detailed pharmacological information remains limited. This study aims to consolidate existing knowledge on the plant’s phytochemistry, traditional uses, and biomedical potential.