Snuhi

(Milk Hedge)
Sanskrit: स्नुही • Botanical: Euphorbia tirucalli Linn.

Snuhi (Euphorbia neriifolia), known as Sehund or Thuhar, is a large succulent shrub with thick fleshy branches containing milky latex. It is found widely across India, often planted as a hedge. The latex (Kshira) is the main medicinal part and is a powerful purgative and Bhedana (piercing) drug. It is a key ingredient in Snuhi Kshira (latex) based formulations like Abhayarishta. The latex is caustic and must be used with great care. Applied externally, it is used for warts, tumors, and skin growths. Internally, purified latex is used as a strong purgative for conditions like ascites, abdominal tumors, and severe constipation. Five species of Euphorbia are mentioned in the text: E. neriifolia, E. nivulia, E. antiquorum, E. trigona, E. trincalli, and E. royleana.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Pungent (Katu)
Quality (Guna)
Heavy (Guru), Sharp (Tikshna), Flowing (Sara)
Potency (Virya)
Hot (Ushna)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
Saponin, Malic acid, Wax, Resin, Tannin, Rubber
Also Known As
English: Milk Hedge, Indian Spurge Tree, Pencil Cactus
Sanskrit: स्नुही, अंगुलीवृक्ष, शूद्र, चित्रिया, रक्तप्रदा, वज्री
Hindi: थूहर, सेहुंड, शेर

What is Sehund / Snuhi (सेहुण्ड / स्नुही)?

Snuhi (Euphorbia neriifolia), known as Sehund or Thuhar, is a large succulent shrub with thick fleshy branches containing milky latex. It is found widely across India, often planted as a hedge. The latex (Kshira) is the main medicinal part and is a powerful purgative and Bhedana (piercing) drug. It is a key ingredient in Snuhi Kshira (latex) based formulations like Abhayarishta. The latex is caustic and must be used with great care. Applied externally, it is used for warts, tumors, and skin growths. Internally, purified latex is used as a strong purgative for conditions like ascites, abdominal tumors, and severe constipation. Five species of Euphorbia are mentioned in the text: E. neriifolia, E. nivulia, E. antiquorum, E. trigona, E. trincalli, and E. royleana.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Virechana (purgative)
  • Bhedana (piercing/breaking)
  • Krimighna (anthelmintic)
  • Shothahara (anti-inflammatory)
  • Arshoghna (anti-hemorrhoidal)
  • Gulmahara (removes abdominal tumors)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Classical Therapeutic Uses

  • Udara Roga (abdominal diseases/ascites)
  • Arsha (hemorrhoids)
  • Gulma (abdominal tumors)
  • Shotha (swelling)
  • Kushtha (skin diseases)
  • Krimi (worms/parasites)
  • Vibandha (constipation)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Snuhi by Condition

Explore how Snuhi is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.

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Snuhi for Digestive Health
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Snuhi for Edema & Swelling
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Snuhi for Hemorrhoids & Piles
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Snuhi for Inflammation
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Snuhi for Parasites & Worms
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Snuhi for Skin Disorders

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.