Cactus Herbal Remedies
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.
Cactus Proper Dose
| Type | Dossage |
| Cactus Tincture | 5-15 drops 2-3 x daily |
Cactus Reference Information
| Latin Name | Selenicereus grandiflorus |
| Other Names | Night-blooming cereus |
| Part Used | Fresh Stems, Flowers |
| Herb Forms | Tincture. |
| Affects | Cardiovascular system |
| Cautions | Although generally safe, large doses of cactus (over 30 drops 3 x/daily) can lead to symptoms such as gastric irritation and heart irregularities, but this is rare. Consult an experienced herbalist and your physician if you are taking other prescription |
| Botanical Info | A tropical cactus with long, creeping fleshy stems and large white flowers that bloom infrequently in the night. |
Supporting Research
McGuffin, M. et al. 1997. Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton: CRC Press.
Felter, H.W. and J.U. Lloyd. 1983. (1898). King's Dispensatory. Portland, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications.
Weiss, R. 1988. Herbal Medicine. Beaconsfield, England: Beaconsfield Publishers.
Wren, R.C. 1988. Potter's New Cyclopaedia of Botanical Drugs. Essex: C.W. Daniel Co. Ltd.