Not only are some succulent plants edible, but they also supply some dietary aspects to your diet. Some claim to lower cholesterol, blood pressure, and coughing.
Although some succulents are poisonous to animals or children, many are not only edible but tasty. They can be eaten in a range of ways: raw, grilled, juiced, or mashed. The best part is that most of these are easy to grow!
In this Edible Succulents Guide, we cover the following 16 species.
- 1. Aloe Vera (Aloe Barbadensis) – 16 Edible Succulents And Their Health Benefits
- 2. Barrel Cactus (Ferocactus Wislizeni)
- 3. Banana Yucca (Yucca batata)
- 4. Chalk Lettuce (Dudleya Edulis)
- 5. Cholla (Cylindropuntia)
- 6. Carpobrotus Chilensis (Chilean Sea Fig)
- 7. Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus Undatus)
- 8. Elephant Bush (Portulacaria Afra)
- 9. Hedgehog Cactus (Echinocereus)
- 10. Hoodia Gordonii (Bushman’s Hat)
- 11. Prickly Pear (Opuntia Ficus-Indica)
- 12. Purslane (Portulaca Oleracea)
- 13. Peyote Cactus (Lophophora Williamsii)
- 14. Sea Beans/Sea Asparagus (Salicornia Europaea)
- 15. Saguaro Cactus (Carnegiea Gigantea)
- 16. Stone Crop (Sedum Species)
1. Aloe Vera (Aloe Barbadensis) – 16 Edible Succulents And Their Health Benefits
The Aloe Vera (Aloe Barbadensis) plant is one of the more commonly understood houseplants because of the Aloe Vera gel you discover inside its leaves. If you go into any chemist or department store, chances are you’ll find something for sale that contains Aloe Vera gel and has a picture of this plant on the product packaging.
Aloe vera is among the common species; are succulents edible?
Health Benefits Of Aloe Vera Plants:
- Assistance with the health of the digestive system
- Assist in the recovery from injuries and the relief of sunburn.
- lowering the blood sugar level.
- Aloe vera is considered a natural laxative.
- Keep your skin clear and hydrated.
2. Barrel Cactus (Ferocactus Wislizeni) – 16 Edible Succulents And Their Health Benefits
Barrel Cactus (Ferocactus wislizeni): Typical names include Southwestern Barrel Cactus, Fishhook Barrel Cactus, Sweet Barrel Cactus, Arizona Barrel Cactus, and Compass Barrel Cactus.
You can eat the lemon-flavored fruit, but only in small amounts. The fruit of the Barrel Cactus (Ferocactus Wislizeni) contains a high level of oxalic acid, which can be hard on human systems. However, the seeds are just great to consume in quantity. They can also be prepared with quinnoa or amaranth, or even eaten alone.
The people of the Sonoran Desert utilize the fruit for candy and jelly. This is one tasty, succulent edible.
Health Benefits Of Barrel Cactus :
- Rich in vitamins A and C.
- Pulp can be applied externally as an analgesic.
- Fruits may be utilized in drinks, salads, and chutneys.
- Fructis may be used to make a pigment or dye.
- Cooked down into syrups or jams.
- Seeds usually have a high level of protein and are rich in oil.
3. Banana Yucca (Yucca batata) – 16 Edible Succulents And Their Health Benefits
Banana Yucca (Yucca Batata), also called Datil Yucca, provides many health advantages and is often utilized medicinally. Parts of the yucca plant can be included in a diet plan. It can likewise be utilized topically to treat skin problems or injuries. Yucca is usually taken as a supplement.
The banana yucca plant has a long history of use among western Indigenous people. The roots were used for soap, and the leaves make exceptional rope. But you know us, we’re interested in the sweet, scrumptious banana yucca fruit! Cloth and sandals were made from the tough fibers of the rigid leaves. This is a popular succulent edible plant.
Health Benefits Of Banana Yucca:
- Contains high quantities of vitamin C and antioxidants. both of which can benefit the immune system and general health.
- Eases arthritis pain.
- Benefits skin health.
- Aids diabetes treatment.
- Inhibits oxidative stress.
4. Chalk Lettuce (Dudleya Edulis) – 16 Edible Succulents And Their Health Benefits
Chalk Lettuce (Dudleya Edulis), commonly known as liveforevers Its edible, succulent leaves can be eaten raw, and they are fleshy. They are considered unique. Stems are somewhat sweet and rejuvenating to chew, though they leave a chalky taste in the mouth.
Chalk lettuce is one of the edible succulents.
Health Benefits of Chalk Lettuce: Unknown
5. Cholla (Cylindropuntia) – 16 Edible Succulents And Their Health Benefits
The Cholla Cactus (Cylindropuntia) has lots of uses and medicinal, residential, or commercial properties. It has been utilized as food and medicine by several Native American tribes. It was also utilized for making fences, toys, and utensils. The fruit of this succulent plant is edible and sweet-tasting.
Health Benefits of Cholla (Cylindropuntia):
- The roots serve to clean the kidneys.
- Medical Function: Burns, Food Poisoning, and Urinary Tract Issues.
- Considered a medicinal plant and snake barrier.
6. Carpobrotus Chilensis (Chilean Sea Fig) – 16 Edible Succulents And Their Health Benefits
Carpobrotus Chilensis is a type of succulent plant known by the common name “sea fig.” It grows on coastal sand dunes and bluffs, is used as a decorative plant, and is likewise edible.
The plant has a pleasant flavor, although it can be laxative if consumed in large quantities, particularly its fruit. The plant can be consumed raw or prepared (especially its leaves), dried for future use, or made into pickles and chutney. Sea figs are edible to humans.
Health Benefits Of Carpobrotus Chilensis (Chilean Sea Fig):
- Treat diarrhea, dysentery, and stomach cramps.
- Ease laryngitis, an aching throat, and mouth infections.
- Utilized externally as a relaxing alleviative for burns, contusions, scrapes, cuts, grazes, and sunburn.
- Deal with skin conditions and allergic reactions, and provide curative treatment for insect stings.
7. Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus Undatus) – 16 Edible Succulents And Their Health Benefits
Ask what succulents are edible. And this type comes out on top.
utilized both as a decorative vine and as a fruit crop. Dragon fruit (Hylocereus Undatus) is a fast-growing, stretching or vining, terrestrial or epiphytic cactus.
This edible succulent plant fruit, which has many names, has a delicate texture and a delicious taste. They are incredibly appealing aesthetically.
Health Benefits Of Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus Undatus):
- High nutritional value
- High levels of vitamin C, calcium, potassium, and fiber
- Polyphenols and antioxidants in abundance
- Consist of healthy fats and probiotics.
- Include flavonoids, which have been linked to improved brain health and a lower risk of heart problems.
- Significant antioxidants found in dragon fruit are betacyanins, betaxanthins, hydroxycinnamates, and flavonoids.
- Prevent inflammatory conditions such as gouty arthritis.
8. Elephant Bush (Portulacaria Afra) – 16 Edible Succulents And Their Health Benefits
Elephant Bush (Portulacaria Afra), also frequently known as porkbush, purslane tree, or spekboom in Afrikaans, is a small-leaved edible succulent plant found in South Africa.
The leaves are used to treat overexhaustion, dehydration, blisters, acne, insect bites, and sunburn, and likewise to lower high blood glucose levels. Typically, it is used to promote the flow of breast milk.
Elephant Bush’s leaves are edible and have an enjoyable citrus flavor. They are rich in vitamin C and consist of trace elements such as manganese, cobalt, and magnesium. The leaves also contain microorganisms, elements, iodine, and selenium, which serve as reliable antioxidants.
Health Benefits Of Elephant Bush (Portulacaria Afra):
- Function as an additional source of water on top of their nutritional advantages for animals.
- Treatment for skin conditions is utilized by individuals in the backwoods.
- Used medicinally to deal with skin concerns, colds, swelling, high blood pressure, and heat stroke.
- Utilized for sore throats and mouth infections.
- High blood sugar levels are apparently effectively dealt with by chewing the leaves.
9. Hedgehog Cactus (Echinocereus) – 16 Edible Succulents And Their Health Benefits
There are 60 species of hedgehog cacti, with some having edible succulent fruit and others having red, pink, purple, or yellow flowers.
Hedgehog Cactus (Echinocereus) is proven to improve air quality and trap water in the spinal columns. It’s also a very healthy food that decreases cholesterol, fights diabetes, reduces inflammation, and is high in antioxidants.
Health Benefits of Hedgehog Cactus (Echinocereus):
- High in antioxidants.
- Decreases cholesterol.
- Battle diabetes.
- Lowers swelling.
- Deal with burns, including sunburn.
- The inner stem likewise has the potential to lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
10. Hoodia Gordonii (Bushman’s Hat) – 16 Edible Succulents And Their Health Benefits
Hoodia Gordonii, commonly known as “Bushman’s Hat” and “Queen of the Namib,” claims to reduce cravings. This is an edible succulent in the Apocynaceae family of flowering plants.
Hoodia Gordonii’s most popularly claimed benefit is its ability to suppress appetite. Hence, it’s commonly marketed and sold as a weight-loss supplement.
Consuming hoodia might trigger unwanted adverse effects, consisting of queasiness, dizziness, vomiting, skin reactions, a raised heart rate, and hypertension. More research is needed to identify a safe dosage, if any.
Health Benefits of Hoodia Gordonii (Bushman’s Hat):
- Treatment for weight loss and weight problems.
- Curbs diabetes.
- Gets rid of hypertension.
- Reduces gastric gas.
- Avoid stomach disorders.
11. Prickly Pear (Opuntia Ficus-Indica) – 16 Edible Succulents And Their Health Benefits
Prickly Pear (Opuntia Ficus-Indica), also known as nopal, opuntia, and other names, is promoted for dealing with diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity, and hangovers. This edible cactus is also promoted for its antiviral and anti-inflammatory residential or commercial properties.
These succulent edible parts are the leaves, flowers, stems, and fruit. Prickly pear cactus is consumed whole (boiled or grilled). It is likewise made into juice and jams.
Health Benefits Of Prickly Pear (Opuntia Ficus-Indica):
- Blood sugar level reduction
- Dealing with diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity, and hangovers.
- Has antiviral and anti-inflammatory residential or commercial properties.
- Used to fight viral infections.
- Reduction of cholesterol levels.
12. Purslane (Portulaca Oleracea) – 16 Edible Succulents And Their Health Benefits
Purslane (Portulaca Oleracea), an edible succulent plant, is best used as a green vegetable abundant in minerals and omega-3 fats. Omega-3 fat is a precursor to a particular group of hormonal agents that provide protection against heart disease, cancer, and a variety of other chronic diseases and conditions.
Are succulent plants edible? We get asked a lot of questions, and ideally, this short article will supply you with the information that you need. Purslane has vitamins, minerals, and anti-oxidants that can offer crucial health advantages.
Health Benefits of Purslane (Portulaca Oleracea):
- Rich in vitamins A and C.
- Lower cholesterol.
- Cancer risk is reduced.
- Support the cardiovascular system.
- Assistance for bone health: calcium and magnesium.
- Rch in folate, which assists in safe cellular division.
13. Peyote Cactus (Lophophora Williamsii) – 16 Edible Succulents And Their Health Benefits
Peyote Cactus is a little, button-shaped cactus native to the southern parts of the United States. Potent substances in the plant, such as mescaline, trigger it to have a hallucinogenic effect in people.
An individual who takes peyote will likely feel psychedelic or hallucinogenic due to the effect of mescaline, which is the psychoactive element in peyote.
Health Benefits Of Peyote Cactus:
- Peyote promotes spiritual experiences.
- Can make people better.
- Help clients deal with stress and anxiety.
- Help reduce suicidal ideas.
- Enhance learning and assistance for alcoholics.
14. Sea Beans/Sea Asparagus (Salicornia Europaea) – 16 Edible Succulents And Their Health Benefits
Sea Beans/Sea Asparagus (Salicornia Europaea) is a genus of edible, succulent, halophytic (salt-tolerant) blooming plants in the family Amaranthaceae. Salicornia species are commonly found in the United States and Canada, Europe, Central Asia, and southern Africa.
Salicornia has diuretic qualities and great purifying effects. Its brilliant green branches appear like a miniature variation of asparagus. They are crunchy, salty, and delicious.
This edible sea veggie can be cooked similar to any other: boiled, steamed, sautéed with garlic and olive oil, or even as a filling for seafood thanks to its natural salty taste.
Health Benefits Of Sea Beans and Sea Asparagus (Salicornia Europaea):
- Rich in minerals.
- High levels of vitamins A, B1, B15, C, and D.
- Lipid-reducing effect
- Antioxidative and antiproliferative for cancer cells.
- Given the presence of methanol, it is antibacterial.
- Hepatoprotective: minimize the negative impacts of analgesics by securing the liver.
- Antidiabetic drugs make up an alternative treatment.
- Immunomodulators have the ability to provoke an immunological reaction.
- Osteoprotective: secure bones by preventing osteoporosis.
15. Saguaro Cactus (Carnegiea Gigantea) – 16 Edible Succulents And Their Health Benefits
The fruits of the Saguaro Cactus are extremely beneficial to your health.They have high moisture retention to hydrate your body. Saguaros are likewise packed with Vitamin C, Vitamin B12, and other crucial minerals to nurture your organs and enable better functioning. These fruits are also high in antioxidants, which protect your body from a variety of infections and diseases.
Native Americans made use of the whole cactus: they consumed the fruit both fresh and dried and made it into preserves and drinks. Giant Saguaro is leafless. Food is made in the green stems, and rainwater is taken in rapidly by the shallow roots and kept in the succulent trunks and branches.
Health Benefits Of Saguaro Cactus (Carnegiea Gigantea):
- Rich in vitamin C.
- High amounts of dietary fiber.
- Reinforces your nervous system.
- Deals with rheumatism.
- Avoids Constipation.
- Avoids cardiovascular diseases.
16. Stone Crop (Sedum Species) – 16 Edible Succulents And Their Health Benefits
Stonecrop (Sedum Types) is a flowering plant that has been used to make medicine in the past. People use common stonecrop for coughs, high blood pressure, injury recovery, and numerous other functions.
Not just does the edible stone crop plant help reduce pigmentation and lighten the complexion, but it likewise helps in regrowth, firming stressed skin, toning the skin, hydrating, reducing indications of aging, and calming sensitive skin.
Is Sedum succulent edible?
For their slightly astringent sour taste, the leaves and flowers of the majority of Sedums are edible and are added to soup recipes, healthy smoothies, and green salads.
Health Benefits Of Stone Crop (Sedum Types)
- Have diuretic and laxative properties in your residential or commercial buildings.
- Used externally in traditional natural medication.
- Deals with scratchy rashes, ulcers, and the topical treatment of warts, pimples, and acne dermatitis.
- Treatment of persistent inflammatory diseases, including persistent viral hepatitis.
- Treat discomfort and swelling.
Disclaimer: The content of this short article is for instructional and gardening purposes only. Please seek the advice of a physician, medical herbalist, or other appropriate professional before using or consuming ANY herb or plant for medicinal or other purposes.
