Some researchers from the University of Ibadan (UI) have claimed that Euphorbia hirta Linn. (asthma plant) could cure some symptoms of Coronavirus adding that administering it for Covid-19 patient could bring relief.
According to a statement from the Premier University, “The plant may be a handy first-aid treatment as tea for people experiencing dry cough, respiratory failure, fever and diarrohea which are some of the symptoms of Covid-19 infection. Using the plant may thus help the patients to breath with ease and remove the need for a ventilator for mild cases. There is no evidence yet that Euphorbia hirta can cure coronavirus, but it can be useful in mitigating some of the symptoms like fever, cough and respiratory challenges”, they explained.
The researchers claimed further that Euphorbia hirta is used in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders (diarrohea, dysentery, intestinal parasitosis, etc.) and bronchial and respiratory diseases (asthma, bronchitis, hay fever, flu etc.).
“Root decoction of the plant is also beneficial for nursing mothers deficient in milk (galactogogue)….The aqueous extract of E. hirta showed antioxidant effect and a free radical scavenging activity. It is used to lower blood pressure, treat athletes foot and dengue fever and for production of blood platelets. It can also be used to relieve anxiety and stress”, they added.
The scientists claimed, “Though the plant is reported to have anti-fertility activity, report from Guinea revealed that the plant extract had practically no toxicity towards man and guinea pigs”.
The scientists who contributed to the study on medicinal efficacy of the plant in different ways are: Professor Ademola Ladele (Agricultural Extensionist); Professor Rasheed Awodoyin (Weed Ecologist); Professor Olaniyi Babayemi (Animal Scientist), Professor Olapeju Aiyelaagbe (Chemist); Dr Okhiomah A. Abu (Animal Scientist); Dr. Olugbenga AdeOluwa (Organic Agriculturist); Dr Olajumoke Oke Fayinminnu (Toxicologist); Dr Funmilayo Adebiyi (Animal Scientist); Dr Idayat Gbadamosi (Ethnobotanist) and Dr Joseph Badejo (Cardiovascular Pharmacologist).
