Cactus

Christopher Hobbs:

“Cactus is mainly known for its use in heart problems, and especially when emotional or nervous system imbalances are involved. The extract is used for heart palpitations, particularly in nervous individuals, heart neuralgia, angina pectoris, heart problems (such as congestive heart failure) associated with tobacco use, and for emphysema. Homeopaths use it as well for endocarditis, myocarditis, and angina pectoris.

Cactus has a taste of BITTER and a temperature of COOL.”

Historical Uses

• Historically, night-blooming cereus has been used in folk medicine primarily for its supposed benefits for heart and circulation issues.
• Herbalists traditionally recommended it as a cardiac tonic to improve heart rhythm, alleviate palpitations, and support weakened hearts. It was included in 19th-century botanical pharmacopoeias.

Modern Clinical Uses by Herbalists & Naturopaths

• Modern herbalists and naturopaths use night-blooming cereus for mild heart-related conditions like arrhythmia, angina, and low blood pressure.
• It’s considered an adjunctive remedy in nervous or emotional conditions related to heart strain, often paired with calming herbs.
• Used sparingly due to its potency, it’s seen as a subtle, gentle cardiac stimulant.

Chemistry

• The plant contains alkaloids, glycosides, and flavonoids believed to contribute to its pharmacological effects.
• Key constituents include betacyanins and saponins, which may provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Pharmacology

• Night-blooming cereus acts as a cardiac stimulant, thought to improve myocardial efficiency and strengthen heart contractions.
• Its alkaloids and glycosides may exhibit mild vasodilatory and antiarrhythmic effects, although more studies are needed.
• It may also exhibit a sedative effect on the nervous system, especially in conditions of heart-induced anxiety.

Clinical Trials

• Clinical trials on night-blooming cereus are limited, and most evidence supporting its use is anecdotal or based on traditional practices.
• A few studies suggest mild cardiac benefits, but these are not robust or widely replicated. More research is needed to establish its safety, efficacy, and mechanisms of action.

Summary

Night-blooming cereus is valued in traditional and naturopathic medicine as a cardiac and nervous system tonic. While it shows promise due to its historical use and some phytochemical properties, its clinical effectiveness and safety require more scientific validation through rigorous studies. It remains a niche remedy, used cautiously by those trained in herbal medicine.

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