What are the Health Benefits of Cactus ?

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Benefits of Cactus

Among a wide variety of plants, the cactus is an attractive plant which requires a very limited quantity of water. Cactus is found in some parts of India, South Africa and West Indies. Cactus is found in a number of species. Mostly used for decorations, the cactus is also extensively cultivated due to its medicinal importance. It is rich in nutrients that prevents numerous diseases and infections. It treats a number of problems. Let us know more about the benefits and side-effects of Cactus.

• What is the nutritional importance of Cactus? 
• What are the benefits of Cactus? 
• What are the side-effects of Cactus? 

What is the nutritional importance of Cactus? 

Cactus is rich in nutrients such as vitamin C, Thiamine, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin B6, vitamin A and folate. It also contains calcium, magnesium, iron, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, zinc, copper and selenium. These nutrients make the body healthy.

What are the benefits of Cactus? 

Cactus has the following health benefits: 

• Reduces cholesterol: Cactus leaves are known to reduce the cholesterol levels in the body. A research conducted on around 68 women showed a decrease in the cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the body within 4 weeks. Including cactus in the diet also reduces the threat of heart diseases.
• Helps fight cancer: Cactus leaves contain phenolics and flavonoids which are antioxidants. They protect the healthy cells from damage because of the free radicals that may lead to heart ailments and cancer. The phytochemical compounds present in cactus slows down the growth of cancerous cells in the colon, liver, breast and prostate gland. They do not have any harmful effect on the healthy cells. (Read about- What is fatty liver)
• Improves the digestion: Eating cactus helps to enhance the digestive system. It reduces cellulite and increases the body’s capacity to retain water. Cactus speeds up the digestion and bowel movements. Cactus is rich in fiber and thus reduces carcinogens in the body. (Read more- What causes Crohn’s disease)  
• Reduces weight: Cactus is low in calories and contains essential amino acids, vitamins and minerals that helps in weight reduction. It provides 16 calories of energy per 100 grams of intake. One must include cactus in the diet to help in weight reduction.
• Reduces inflammation: Cactus has anti-inflammatory properties that treat the inflammation in the muscles, cardiovascular system, gastrointestinal tract and arteries. Cactus contains quercetin 3-methyl flavonoid It prevents cell damage and acts as an analgesic. With anti-inflammatory properties, cactus is useful to treat ulcer, edema and leukocyte migration.  
• Protects the brain cells: The stem and fruits of the cactus plant contain quercetin 3-methyl flavonoid which protects the neural system. It protects the neurons from any damage.  
• Controls Diabetes: High blood sugar levels may lead to diabetes, stroke and heart diseases. Consuming cactus reduces blood sugar levels in people suffering from diabetes and obesity. A research conducted on non-obese people show that the cactus leaves decrease blood sugar levels and thus cactus is beneficial for the diabetic people. (Read more- Benefits of Eucalyptus oil) 

What are the side-effects of Cactus?

Consumption of cactus has several health benefits, but it may also lead to the following side-effects: 

• People who take medicines for diabetes must not consume cactus as it affects the blood sugar levels.
• Cactus contains a high amount of fiber which leads to stomach ache, gastric issues, constipation and cramps on overconsumption.  
• Cactus is rich in calcium and may result in kidney and heart related ailments. 
• People who are allergic to cactus must not consume it. 
• Gaining some knowledge about cactus is essential before consuming it.

If the consumption of cactus cause any health-related issue, contact a General Physician immediately. 

Our aim is to provide information about ailments. We do not recommend any kind of medicine, treatment or surgery. Contact a doctor for an advice.

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