Botanical Overview
Night-Blooming Cereus (Hylocereus undatus) belongs to the Cactaceae family. While not among the most extensively documented medicinal plants, this species has recorded uses that warrant attention from researchers and practitioners. The cactus family (Cactaceae) includes succulent plants with thick, fleshy stems modified for water storage and spines instead of leaves. The flowers are typically large, showy, and short-lived with numerous petals and stamens. Many species produce alkaloids and have traditional medicinal uses.
General Description
It is used both as an ornamental vine and as a fruit crop, the pitahaya or dragon fruit.
Family Context
The Cactaceae family is widely distributed. Notable medicinal members include:
- Peyote — 19 documented uses
- Indian Fig — 19 documented uses
- Night-Blooming Cereus — 9 documented uses
- Night-Blooming Cereus — 3 documented uses
Geographic Distribution
Night-Blooming Cereus has been recorded in 10 countries and territories worldwide, including Australia, Brazil, China, Colombia, Spain, and others.
Traditional Uses
Night-Blooming Cereus has been traditionally used for digestive health.
Digestive health.
- Vermifuge
For digestive complaints, the herb is typically prepared as a tea or decoction taken before meals. The bitter compounds stimulate digestive secretions and improve nutrient absorption. Some traditions use the powdered root or leaves in small doses as a stomachic tonic.
Active Compounds
Phytochemical research has identified 19 compounds in this species, including a diverse array of phytochemical classes (see the Complete Chemical Inventory below for the full list).
The identified compounds include the following categories:
- Sterol: cholesterol-like compounds with anti-inflammatory properties
- Alkaloid: nitrogenous compounds with diverse pharmacological activities