Euphorbia hirta L.

Patikan kebo (Euphorbia hirta) is an annual herb up to 50 cm tall of the Euphorbiaceae family, thought to originate from Central America and now distributed throughout the tropical world. Its milky white sap has traditionally been widely used to address respiratory disorders such as asthma and bronchitis. Patikan kebo is also believed to boost immunity and relieve dysentery.

Grows well at elevations up to 1,400 m above sea level. Commonly found along roadsides, riverbanks, grasslands, through to agricultural areas. Prefers light (sandy), medium (clay) soil, well-drained, not too moist, and full sunlight. Patikan kebo grows in tropical and subtropical regions. 

• Roots taproot, brownish in color, many branches and finely hairy.
• Stem soft, round cylindrical shape, jointed, purplish-red in color and has fine yellowish hairs on its surface.
• Leaves green with a purple spot in the middle, arranged opposite. Lance-shaped, tapering leaf tip, rounded base, serrated edges. Leaf length ranges between 0.5-5 cm.
• Flowers small, numerous, compound, forming a ball, reddish-brown. Consisting of 4 male flowers and 1 female flower.
• Fruit capsule-like, has three round bumps covered with fine hairs.
• Seeds round shaped, brownish in color without fine hairs.

Propagated through seeds that fall to the ground carried by wind or insects. 

Flavonoids, tannins, diterpenoids, triterpenoids, alkaloids, polyphenols, choline, shikimic acid, saponins, quercetin, anthraquinones.

Boosts body immunity, treats fever, dysentery, diarrhea, sore throat, eczema, herpes, allergies, itching, breast abscess, and asthma. 

• Select fresh leaves then wash thoroughly and drain.
• Arrange the leaves on a tray, cover with a dark colored cloth. Dry in direct sunlight for ± 7 days.
• Pack the dried material in plastic then vacuum-seal and store at room temperature. 

Gelang susu, Gendong anak (Jakarta), Kukon-kukon, Patikan, Patikan jawa (Java), Kaksekakan (Madura), Sosononga (Halmahera).