With over 2,000 species of Euphorbia, ixbut stands out for its traditional medicinal use, particularly among the Maya. This plant is in the category of cactus and succulents, and it grows to 1 to 1.5 feet in height. The blooms are pale green in color, and the sap can be toxic. It is most commonly used in an infusion.
WHERE IT CAN BE FOUND:
Guatemala, Mexico, Honduras, Belize
PROPERTIES AND USE:
Antifungal, analgesic, antibacterial, antitumor, expectorant, antiparasitic, febrifuge, and used to treat poor lactation, stomach ailments, diarrhea, skin conditions, gonorrhea, constipation, warts, colic, sore muscles, rheumatism, bronchitis, oral infections, poor immune system function, respiratory conditions. In large doses, ixbut is emetic.
TRADITIONAL PREPARATION:
For all conditions, make an infusion of 3 dried leaves with stems in 1 cup boiling water. Make larger quantities and use as a rinse or bath for skin conditions and for sore muscles. For warts, apply the sap directly to the skin. For oral infections, dilute the sap with water, and use as a mouthwash.
