Euphorbia pekinensis
What's the taxonomical classification of Euphorbia pekinensis?
Euphorbia pekinensis belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified under the phylum Streptophyta. Within this lineage, it is situated in the class Equisetopsida and the subclass Magnoliidae. The plant follows the order Malpighiales and is a member of the family Euphorbiaceae. At the most specific taxonomic levels, it is categorized under the genus Euphorbia, with its unique identity defined by the species name pekinenensis.
| Taxonomic Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Euphorbia |
| Species | pekinensis |
What are the morphological characteristics of this plant?
Euphorbia pekinenensis has an erect, herbaceous growth habit characterized by smooth, cylindrical stems that reach heights of approximately 30 to 50 centimeters. The leaves are arranged in an alternate pattern along the stem and possess an elliptical to lanceolate shape with entire margins. Small, inconspicuous flowers are organized into specialized structures called cyathia, which are typical of the Euphorbia genus. These flowering units are often surrounded by colorful, petal-like bracts that attract pollinators. The plant also features a shallow, fibrous root system that helps anchor its delicate structure in moist soil.
What is the geographical distribution of this plant?
This plant is native to the temperate regions of East Asia, specifically found across China, Japan, and Korea. Its distribution is primarily concentrated in mountainous areas where it thrives in varied terrains. You can often locate these specimens in forest margins, rocky slopes, and grassy openings. The species prefers well-drained soils that are typical of its regional habitats. This widespread range allows it to adapt to several different microclimates within its native territory.
How is this plant cultivated?
This plant requires well-draining soil and full sun to moderate shade to thrive during its growing season.
It is a perennial species that prefers temperate climates with distinct seasonal changes. When planting, ensure the ground is not waterlogged to prevent root rot. Regular watering is necessary during dry spells, but the soil should be allowed to dry slightly between applications.
Once established, this succulent-like plant is relatively low-maintenance and can tolerate various soil types.
What parts of this plant are used medicinally?
This plant Euphorbia pekinenensis provides medicinal value through its radix, leaves, stems, and tubers. The radix, or root, is frequently utilized in traditional remedies to treat various internal ailments. Both the leaves and the stems are harvested to prepare topical applications or decoctions for specific therapeutic purposes. Additionally, the tubers serve as a significant part of the plant used for their unique pharmacological properties. Together, these diverse anatomical structures contribute to the overall medicinal profile of the species.
According to a study published by "Journal of ethnopharmacology", Euphorbia pekinensis Radix is a traditional medicinal plant used to treat edema, ascites, and various inflammatory conditions. This plant has toxicity that can cause swelling and congestion of the gastrointestinal mucosa. A total of 77 blood-absorbed components were identified from EP, while 109 blood-absorbed components were identified from the processed PEP. These components include terpenoids, phenolic acids, alkaloids, flavonoids, and tannins. Network pharmacology was used to identify key compounds and targets mediating effects in addressing 5 TCM syndromes and symptoms including 7 types of cancer and myocardial infarction.
The parts of this plant that are ued medicinally are shown in the list below.
- Radix
- leaf
- stem
- tubers
What traditional systems uses this plant?
This plant, Euphorbia pekinenensis, is used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to clear heat, resolve toxins, and reduce swelling or nodules. Historical practitioners primarily utilized the plant to treat various inflammatory conditions and skin ailments. It was often prescribed for its ability to address internal heat and promote the dissipation of lumps or abscesses. In many traditional formulations, it serves as a key component for managing respiratory issues and phlegm. These ancient applications reflect its long-standing reputation as a potent medicinal herb in East Asian healing practices.
According to a study published by "Scientific reports", researchers utilized peritoneum transcriptomics profiling on 15 subjects to investigate the effects of Euphorbia pekinenensis. The study performed differentially expressed genes screening using the OneArray platform to compare various treatment groups. The research analyzed how Euphorbia pekinenensis interacts within a network involving HCC ascites-related genes and known therapeutic target genes. Through the analysis of nodes' degree, closeness, betweenness, and k-coreness, the Frk-Arhgdib-Inpp5d-Avpr2-Aqp4 axis was identified. This specific axis was demonstrated to be a candidate target through both qPCR and western blot analyses using M-1 collecting duct cells in vitro and HCC ascites mice in vivo.
The hystorical systems that uses this plant are shown in the list below.
- Traditional Chinese Medicine
What are the pharmacological activities of Euphorbia pekinensis?
This plant has antioxidant, antitumor, gonorrhoea treatment, oedema treatment, and wart cure pharmacological activities. Its chemical constituents provide the necessary properties to combat oxidative stress within biological systems. Researchers have also explored its potential to inhibit the growth of malignant cells during cancer studies. Traditional medicinal applications include using its extracts to manage symptoms of gonorrhoea and reduce bodily swelling related to oedema. Additionally, the plant is utilized in dermatological treatments to effectively cure various types of warts.
According to a study published by "Naunyn-Schmiedeberg's archives of pharmacology", Euphorbia pekinensis (Rupr.) is a medicinal plant where kaempferol is widely found. This flavonoid polyphenol antioxidant possesses multifaceted potential in mitigating neuroinflammation, apoptosis, and oxidative stress in different neurodegenerative diseases. It exerts these effects through the modulation of various pathways, including NRF-2, NADPH oxidase, TLR-4/MAPK, and TLR-4/NF-κB. The review of research published between 2009 and 2024 included a total of 24 research evidence to elucidate these molecular pathways. These findings demonstrate the neuroprotective potential of kaempferol against neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.
The primary pharmacological activities of this plant are shown in the list below.
- antioxidant
- antitumor
- gonorrhea treatment
- oedema treatment
- wart cure
What medicinal compounds this plant contains?
This plant contains the specific medicinal compound known as WEVEP and a water extract derived from Euphorbia pekinenensis Rupr. These substances are identified as the primary components of interest within the species. Researchers focus on these elements to understand the potential pharmacological benefits of the plant. The water extract serves as a concentrated source of the plant's natural properties. By studying WEVEP, scientists aim to isolate the specific chemical structures responsible for its medicinal effects.
According to a study published by "Journal of ethnopharmacology", Euphorbia pekinensis Rupr. (EP) is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat solid tumors, leukemias, and malignant ascites. The water extract of EP vinegar preparation (WEVEP) inhibits angiogenesis in zebrafish at concentrations from 100µg/mL to 250µg/mL (p < 0.0001) and in the HUVEC model from 100µg/mL to 400µg/mL (p < 0.0001). In the zebrafish model, mean vessel numbers for administered groups were 26.00 ± 1.29 (100µg/mL), 24.54 ± 2.20 (150µg/mL), 22.66 ± 2.68 (200µg/mL), and 20.80 ± 1.75 (250µg/mL) compared to 27.67 ± 0.96 in the control group. Quantitative gene expression showed that while VEGFR3 significantly increased, 23 other genes including Met, VEGFA, and Flt-1 were significantly decreased. These results suggest that WEVEP can positively modulate angiogenesis through multiple targeting mechanisms.
The primary medicinal compounds of this plant are shown in the list below.
- The provided list does not contain 5 medicinal compounds; it only contains one specific extract:
- water extract from Euphorbia pekinensis Rupr.
What health conditions is this plant used for?
This plant is used for treating ascites, edema, oedema, various inflammatory conditions, and intestinal inflammation. Its medicinal properties focus on draining excess fluids that accumulate in the body's tissues or abdominal cavity. By reducing swelling, it helps alleviate the discomfort associated with systemic oedema and localized edema. It is also applied to calm the body's immune response during different inflammatory conditions. Furthermore, its effects can be directed toward soothing and healing instances of intestinal inflammation.
According to a study published by "Journal of ethnopharmacology", Euphorbia pekinenensis is used in Mongolian and Chinese medicine for treating edema, ascites, and various inflammatory conditions. The plant's effects are analyzed through network pharmacology to address five TCM syndromes and modern medicine symptoms including seven types of cancer and myocardial infarction. Researchers identified a total of 77 blood-absorbed components from EP and 109 blood-absorbed components from PEP. The study highlights the different anti-cancer and ascites-reducing potential of EP and PEP. These findings provide a foundation for the therapeutic use of PEP for treating ascites and cancer.
The main health conditions this plant is used for are shown in the list below.
- ascites
- edema
- oedema
- tumor
- cancer
What are the herbal preparations of this plant?
This plant is a perennial herb used to create medicinal preparations such as Euphorbiae pekinesis Radix extract for treating various inflammatory conditions. These preparations are frequently utilized in traditional medicine to address skin ailments and swellings. The extract is often processed into specialized ointments or oral decoctions to maximize its therapeutic potential. Practitioners rely on the specific chemical compounds within the root to provide localized or systemic relief. Careful dosage is essential when using these herbal preparations to ensure patient safety.
The main herbal preparations of this plant are shown in the list below.
- Euphorbiae pekinenis Radix extract
What side effects this plant can have?
This plant can cause abnormal function of gastrointestinal goblet cell secretion, delayed absorption of nutrients, diuretic effects, purgative actions, and slow liver development. Consumption of its components may disrupt the natural mucus production in the digestive tract. These physiological changes can lead to impaired nutrient uptake and a loss of fluids through increased urination or bowel movements. The purgative properties of the species often result in significant laxative effects. Additionally, certain compounds within the plant are associated with the inhibition of liver development processes.
According to a study published by "Zhongguo Zhong yao za zhi = Zhongguo zhongyao zazhi = China journal of Chinese materia medica", zebrafish embryos were exposed to different concentrations of Euphorbiae Pekinenis Radix from 12 hpf until 96 hpf. The toxicity of the plant increased in a dose-dependent manner and manifested as slow liver development, a smaller liver area, edema of the yolk sac, delayed absorption, slowing of gastrointestinal motility, and abnormal function of gastrointestinal goblet cell secretion. Toxicity followed the order of petroleum ether, dichloro methane, and ethyl acetate. The results indicated that the toxicity of Euphorbiae Pekinenis Radix was reduced after processing with vinegar. Furthermore, the petroleum ether and methylene chloride fractions were identified as the main sites responsible for liver and gastrointestinal toxicity.
The main side effects this plant can have are shown in the list below.
- abnormal function of gastrointestinal goblet cell secretion
- delayed absorption
- diuretic
- purgative
- slow liver development
What herbs are paired with Euphorbia pekinensis?
This plant Euphorbia pekinenensis is commonly paired with herbs such as Scutellaria barbata, Ban Lan Gen, and Lian Qiao to enhance its ability to clear heat and resolve toxicity.
These combinations are frequently utilized in traditional formulas aimed at treating swellings, abscesses, and inflammatory skin conditions. When used alongside Scutellaria barbata, the mixture works more effectively to detoxify the blood and reduce internal heat. Pairing it with Ban Lan Gen provides additional support for soothing sore throats and reducing fever.
Such synergistic blends are carefully calibrated to address various types of infectious heat patterns in the body.