Nopal vs Teucrium polium

Mexican cactus used as food and medicine by Aztec and indigenous peoples; pads eaten as vegetable; fruits for nutrition; highly studied for diabetes management.

Middle Eastern and Mediterranean herb used across Arab traditional medicine for diabetes and digestive conditions.

pectin, mucilage, betalains, betacyanin, polysaccharides

diterpenoids, iridoids, flavonoids, polyphenols, tannins

Diabetes management, Hangover remedy, Digestive conditions, Nutritive food

diabetes, digestive disorders, fever, liver conditions

Blood sugar regulation, Anti-inflammatory effects, Antioxidant activity, Gastrointestinal support

antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, antioxidant

Fresh pads: 100-300g daily; 500mg-1g dried powder; 3.5g extract

3-5g dried herb or 1-2ml tincture daily

Hypoglycemia medications, Thyroid conditions

liver disease, alcoholic preparations

Diarrhea, Hypoglycemia with antidiabetics, Mild allergic reaction

hepatotoxicity with high doses