Taxonomy and Medicinal Uses of Euphorbiaceae (Spurge) Family of Rajshahi, Bangladesh

Abstract

Taxonomy and medicinal uses of the family Euphorbiaceae growing throughout the Rajshahi city, Bangladesh were studied during September 2012 to August 2013. A total of 16 species under 8 genera belonging to the family Euphorbiaceae were collected and identified. Out of the total number of species Acalypha indica L., Euphorbia hirta L., Euphorbia thymifolia L., Euphorbia tirucalli L., Euphorbia pulcherrima L., Euphorbia cotinifolia L., Croton bonplandianum Baill., Codiaeum variegatum (L.) A. Juss., Jatropha gossypifolia L., Jatropha curcas L., Manihot esculenta L., Ricinus communis L. were common and Acalypha hispida Burm. f., Euphorbia helioscopia L., Euphorbia milii L., Putranjiva roxburghii L. were rare species in the study area. For each species botanical name, local name, habit, habitat, flower colour, flowering season, chromosome number and medicinal uses have been mentioned. The findings of this study could be used to enhance folk medicine for the betterment of rural or indigenous livelihoods.