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Night-Blooming Cactus (Selenicereus grandiflorus)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Cactaceae
  • Common Names: Night-Blooming Cereus, Queen of the Night, Cactus Grandiflorus
  • Parts Used: Stems, Flowers

Description

Selenicereus grandiflorus, commonly known as Night-Blooming Cereus, is a climbing cactus native to the Caribbean and parts of Central and South America. The plant is well-known for its large, fragrant, night-blooming flowers. Traditionally, it has been used as a cardiotonic and nervine, particularly in Western herbal medicine, to support heart function and reduce nervous tension.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used in Western herbal medicine as a heart tonic and circulatory stimulant.
  • Traditionally employed for palpitations, angina, and nervous heart conditions.
  • Applied in homeopathy for heart and kidney disorders.
  • Used to calm the nervous system in cases of restlessness and anxiety.

Constituents

  • Alkaloids (cactine)
  • Flavonoids
  • Glycosides
  • Mucilage
  • Resins

Actions

  • Cardiotonic (Heart-supporting)
  • Nervine (Calms the nervous system)
  • Circulatory stimulant
  • Antispasmodic
  • Diuretic

Medicinal Uses

1. Cardiovascular Support:
Traditionally used to strengthen heart function, regulate heart rhythm, and improve circulation.

2. Nervous System Relaxation:
Acts as a calming nervine for individuals with stress-related heart palpitations and anxiety.

3. Circulatory Enhancement:
Encourages healthy blood flow and may help in cases of poor circulation and cold extremities.

4. Kidney and Urinary Support:
Mild diuretic properties support kidney function and fluid balance.

Preparation and Dosage

⚠️ Note: Due to its potency, this herb should be used under the guidance of a qualified practitioner.

Infusion (Tea from Flowers and Stems):

  • 1 tsp of dried plant material per cup of hot water. Steep for 10-15 minutes. Drink up to twice daily.

Tincture:

  • 2-5 ml taken up to twice daily.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Heart Conditions: Should be used with caution in individuals with heart disease or those taking cardiac medications.
  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Avoid use unless under medical supervision.
  • Allergic Reactions: Rare, but possible; discontinue use if symptoms occur.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Traditional Western Herbalism: Cooling and calming; supports heart and nervous system health.
  • Homeopathy: Used in very small doses for heart and circulatory disorders.
  • Traditional Eclectic Medicine: Considered a valuable remedy for functional heart disturbances and nervous irritability.

Combinations

  • For Heart Health: Combine with hawthorn and motherwort.
  • For Nervous System Support: Combine with lemon balm and passionflower.
  • For Circulatory Health: Combine with cayenne and ginkgo.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Flowers and stems are collected when fully mature and dried for medicinal use.
  • Drying: Air dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
  • Storage: Store dried plant material in airtight containers away from moisture and light.

Modern Research

Studies confirm Selenicereus grandiflorus’s cardiotonic, nervine, and circulatory-stimulating properties, reinforcing its traditional applications.

Night-Blooming Cereus remains a valuable herb in both traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for heart health, nervous system relaxation, and circulatory support.