37. SPURGES, EUPHORBIA

Euphorbia spp.

(spurge family)

EXAMPLES:

Euphorbia cyparissias, cypress spurge, fields and gardens (fig. 37A)

Euphorbia esula, leafy spurge, noxious weed

Chamaesyce maculata (Euphorbia maculata, old name), prostrate spurge, weed (fig. 37B

E. marginata, snow on the mountain, garden plant

E. splendens, crown of thorns, houseplant

E. lactea , candelabra cactus, houseplant

E. tirucalli, tinsel tree, milk bush, houseplant

E. pulcherrima, poinsettia, houseplant

TOXICITY RATING: Moderate. Spurges are highly unpalatable, and are rarely consumed in quantities sufficient to cause serious toxicity, but are very irritating upon contact.

ANIMALS AFFECTED: Any animal consuming spurge or coming in contact with the sap may be affected.

DANGEROUS PARTS OF PLANT: All parts.

CLASS OF SIGNS: Gastrointestinal irritation, dermal and ocular irritation, poor doer, weakness.

PLANT DESCRIPTION: These spindly annuals or herbaceous, sometimes succulent or even cactus-like perennials with milky, acrid sap have simple, alternate or opposite, entire or toothed leaves. The tiny flowers are clustered in small, cup-like structures themselves resembling white-petaled flowers in some species. The fruit, three-lobed and three-seeded, is borne on a stalk extending from the cup-like flower structure. Spurges grow in old fields, open woods, roadsides, waste areas, and around homes as cultivated or escaped plantings. Some are houseplants.

SIGNS: Spurges contain sap that is highly irritating upon contact, especially to the eyes and mouth, and upon prolonged exposure to skin (legs and head primarily). Irritation, redness, pain and swelling will result, and salivation and head-shaking if the oral mucosa is affected. Blistering and open sores are possible with spurge sap, and some plants have historically been used as a chemical brand for cattle. If the plants are swallowed, stomach and intestinal irritation can occur, with vomiting (in those species that can vomit), abdominal pain, and diarrhea.

FIRST AID: Prevent further contact and ingestion of spurge. If a large quantity was consumed, if an eye is affected, or if the animal cannot eat, contact a veterinarian immediately. For minor irritation, provide supportive care, since the signs are usually self-limiting within about 12 to 24 hours.

SAFETY IN PREPARED FEEDS: Spurges remain toxic when dry, therefore feeds are not safe for consumption. If small amounts have been incorporated into hay (where the plants are still recognizable), animals may voluntarily avoid consuming spurge if there is enough good feed available. Caution must be used in more highly processed feeds where consumption is unavoidable, such as silage, chop, and pellets.

PREVENTION: Animals should not be pastured where spurges grow. Mow or spray to eliminate them, since skin irritation can occur just by the animal's contact with the plant. Do not feed spurge-contaminated feeds, especially the more highly processed ones where consumption cannot be prevented. Small amounts of spurge in hay may be safe for most animals since they typically will avoid eating it, although all efforts should be made to provide clean feed.