Cactus Juice: A Sustainable Adobe Sealant

Mexican builders discovered that coating adobe houses with cactus juice creates a natural

waterproof barrier that also repels insects. The traditional technique uses the

mucilage from nopal cactus, which has been protecting homes for generations. When applied to

adobe walls, the sticky substance penetrates the porous material and forms a protective seal

that keeps moisture out while maintaining breathability. This ancient method is now gaining attention

as a sustainable alternative to chemical sealants. The cactus coating can last for years

and gets reapplied easily. Plus, it's completely biodegradable and

costs almost nothing since nopal cacti grow abundantly throughout Mexico. Communities are