Asthma Weed
Euphorbia hirtafam. Euphorbiaceae
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Pl. 2A51 — Euphorbia hirta
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IOverview
Overview
Asthma Weed, scientifically known as Euphorbia hirta, is an annual herb that thrives in a wide range of environments across North and South America, the Caribbean, and parts of Africa. Native to Alabama and specific regions in Argentina, Arizona, Aruba, and other Central American countries, this plant has adapted to various conditions, preferring full sun, dry to moist soil, and light or medium textures. Standing at about 0.3 meters tall, it is notable for its edible leaves and shoots, making it a valuable resource in some culinary traditions.
Quick answers
What is Asthma Weed?
Asthma Weed, scientifically known as Euphorbia hirta, is an annual herb that thrives in a wide range of environments across North and South America, the Caribbean, and parts of Africa.
What is Asthma Weed used for?
Traditionally used for immune support. Each claim is evidence-rated — see Section II for full citations.
Best for
Top 1 evidence-ranked use of Asthma Weed
Clinicaluses · safety · chemistry · dosagemedicinal profile
IIBenefits & evidence
1 claim · 0 sources
Benefits & evidence
1 claim · 0 sources- Euphorbia hirta has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to support immune function, often prepared as a decoction. It is believed to help maintain overall health and resilience against common ailments.
The mechanism by which Euphorbia hirta supports the immune system is not fully characterised but may involve bioactive compounds that modulate inflammatory responses.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Asthma Weed support blend
generaltea
AI returned a direct ingredient list; normalized into one draft blend for editorial review.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Asthma Weed, or Euphorbia hirta, thrives in full sun and prefers well-draining soil that is light (sandy) to medium. It can grow up to 0.3 meters tall and is both annual and edible, with its leaves and shoots being the parts used. The plant is hardy in temperate regions and grows in a wide range of locations across North and South America, as well as some Caribbean islands. Keep the soil dry to moist, and ensure it receives plenty of sunlight for best growth.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Life cycle
Annual
Mature size
0.3 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Asthma Weed for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple, low-maintenance plant that thrives in various conditions.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or young plants, potting soil, containers, and gardening gloves.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost when temperatures are above 15°C (60°F).
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a well-draining potting mix. Containers should be at least 30 cm (12 inches) wide with drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 0.5-1 cm deep, or transplant young plants into the prepared containers.
- 5
First two weeks
Water sparingly to keep soil moist but not soggy. Place in a sunny spot and avoid direct sunlight for the first few days.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun, water when the top inch of soil is dry, and fertilize lightly every 4-6 weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune back any leggy growth to encourage bushy foliage. Harvest young leaves for use in salads or teas.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, and not providing enough sunlight are common issues.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesShoots
Edible uses: The leaves and shoots of the Asthma Weed (Euphorbia hirta) are edible. Typically, they are prepared fresh in salads or cooked as a green vegetable. The plant thrives in full sun and various soil conditions, making it adaptable for cultivation where its leaves can be harvested throughout the growing season.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 30 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Georgia
Americas13 regions
native (13)BahamasBelizeBoliviaColombiaCosta RicaCubaDominican RepublicEcuadorEl SalvadorFrench GuianaGuatemalaHaitiJamaica
Broader regions
native:Mexico Gulf, Chile Central, Mexico Central, Argentina Northeast, Central American Pac, Florida, Louisiana, Brazil North, Aruba, Brazil Northeast, California, Brazil Southeast, Argentina Northwest, Arizona, Leeward Is., Mexico Northeast
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Euphorbiaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Euphorbiaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
shared use cases
Different families, similar therapeutic role — good for comparing.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
XII
About this entry
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- Citation
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