We rarely think of cacti as medicinal plants, but the truth is that there are some species that are very interesting, and best of all, they are quite well known. Yes, yes, if you want to take care of your health with a different type of plant being, it will not be difficult for you to find them.
The benefits of cacti and other succulents are very interesting, so what better way to find out than by telling you what they are in this article that, I'm sure, will surprise you. 😉
caralluma fimbriata
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It is a crass or non-cactus succulent plant native to the Indian desert that It is characterized by having thin stems of about two centimeters thick and about 40cm high, highly branched. In its place of origin, it has been consumed as a vegetable accompanied by spices or preserved in pickle or chutney.
It serves to reduce the feeling of hunger, so that used to lose weight or maintain weight. The dose is 500mg divided into two doses a day. Yes, if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant, you should not consume it, as well as those who are taking drugs to reduce hunger or children under 12 years of age.
hoodia gordonii
It is a non-cactus succulent plant native to southern Africa, where it is found mostly in the Kalahari desert. Develops stems 50 to 75cm tall, thorny. Once mature, it produces simple flowers 8 to 10 cm in diameter, light purple in color.
Like Caralluma, it is a plant that it is used to lose weight since glucosides act directly on the satiety center of the hypothalamus, thus reducing the sensation of hunger. The dose is 200mg divided into two doses a day.
Opuntia ficus-indica
It's a cactus Originally from Mexico that has managed to naturalize in the hot regions of the world, including Spain. Reaches a maximum height of 1m. It develops cladodes (leaves) that are about 25-30cm long by about the same width from whose areoles the spines emerge. During the summer the fruits, known as prickly pears, which are edible, ripen.
It is a very complete medicinal plant: it serves as antirust having a high content of flavonoids and vitamin C; hydrate skin and hair; helps to lose weight; improves intestinal transit, and relieves headache. The dose is two capsules of nopal with a glass of water before meals; although if you prefer you can consume its fresh fruits without problem. 🙂
Do you know of other cacti and succulents that are medicinal?