*4.5.1 Euphorbia hirta* L*.*

*E. hirta* is a slender-stemmed, annual hairy plant with many branches from the base to the top, spreading up to 40 cm in height. *E. hirta* is often used traditionally for female disorders, respiratory ailments (cough, coryza, bronchitis, and asthma), worm infestations in children, dysentery, jaundice, pimples, gonorrhea, digestive problems, diabetes and tumors. It is reported to contain alkanes, triterpenes, phytosterols, tannins, polyphenols, and flavanoids. The root exudate exhibits nematicidal activity [3]. The decoction of the dry herb is used for skin diseases while that for the fresh herbs is used as gargle for the treatment of thrush. Roots are also used for snake bites. This herb shows antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antimalarial, galactogenic, anti-asthmatic, anti-diarrheal, anti-cancer, anti-oxidant, anti-infertility, anti-amoebic, and anti-fungal activities [36]. The root decoction is also beneficial for nursing mothers deficient in milk [36]. *E. hirta* has shown a galactogenic activity in guinea pigs before puberty by increasing the development of the mammary glands and induction of milk secretion [36].
