Calopogonium mucunoides vs Prickly Pear Cactus

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Calopogonium mucunoides

Anti-inflammatory

Prickly Pear Cactus

Opuntia humifusa

Anti-inflammatory

⚠️ Pregnancy & Nursing Warnings

Calopogonium mucunoides

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Prickly Pear Cactus

✅ Generally safe in pregnancy

✅ Generally safe while nursing

Description

A tropical legume cover crop used medicinally in some regions for anti-inflammatory and wound healing purposes.

Eastern North American prickly pear with medicinal pads and fruits; used by numerous Native American tribes for wound healing, burns, and anti-inflammatory purposes.

Active Compounds

flavonoids, saponins, tannins

betalains, mucilage, pectin, quercetin, isorhamnetin

Traditional Uses

Wound healing, Anti-inflammatory use, Cover crop

Wound healing, Burns, Anti-inflammatory use, Nutritive food

Modern Uses

Limited medicinal research

Anti-inflammatory effects, Wound healing support, Antioxidant activity, Diuretic properties

Adult Dosage

2g dried herb as tea

Pads as food; poultice topically; powder 1-2g daily

Contraindications

Pregnancy caution

Anticoagulants high amounts

Side Effects

Mild reactions

Rare allergic reaction, Glochid irritation if improperly prepared

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

Reviewed by: HerbAlly Editorial Team, Medical herbalists and healthcare professionals

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E

View Calopogonium mucunoides Details View Prickly Pear Cactus Details