Ancient Mexican natives used prickly pear leaves as poultices to heal wounds and bruises. Spanish colonists brought it to Europe, spreading quickly throughout the Mediterranean basin.
- Nopal (Opuntia spp.) also known as prickly pear cactus, has been one of the most important botanicals consumed as a health-promoting food for centuries.
- This 1% natural product is derived from a high quality Nopal Cactus, which is shown to quickly bind to starch and simple sugars, limiting them from being digested.
Prickly Pear Scientific Facts
- Other names: Indian fig.
- French: Figuier d’lnde.
- Spanish: Nopal, Chumbera, tuna.
- Environment: Native to Mexico and Central America, now widely spread throughout the Mediterranean basin. It grows in rocky and dry soils.
- Description: Fleshy plant of the Cactaceae family, with fleshy leaves and stems and plenty of juice. It is formed by a series of oval-shaped leaves (pulpy) with prickles or thorns. The fruit is orange or red and is covered by spines.
- Parts of the plant used medicinally: The fruit (Indian figs), the flowers, and the leaves.
Healing Properties and Indications
The fruit of the prickly pear possesses astringent properties and renders good results in stopping summer diarrhea. Their juice is used in Mexico as a syrup to calm coughs.
The flowers have diuretic and antispasmodic properties, used in oliguria (lack of urine production) and cystitis.
The leaves contain high amounts of mucilage and cellulose, which gives them emollient properties. They are used as poultices to heal wounds, bruises, and irritations.
How to use Prickly Pear
- The fruit must be carefully rinsed so as not to touch them with bare fingers because its many prickles are challenging to remove. Fruit can be eaten in syrup or fresh.
- Syrup: It is prepared by slicing the fruit and covering it with brown sugar. Steep for ten hours and then take the syrup (the resulting liquid), straining it to separate seeds. Sip it hot by the spoonful.
- Infusion with 20-30g of flowers per liter of water. Drink 3-4 cups per day.
- Poultices: The leaves are cut, then softly heated in an oven, and directly applied to the affected skin area.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does prickly pear impact blood sugar levels?
Studies show that it may help reduce blood sugar in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Its fiber and pectin content may slow sugar absorption. However, always consult your doctor before using prickly pear alongside diabetes medications.
Can prickly pear improve cholesterol levels?
Early research suggests promise. It contains fiber, which can lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol. Some studies indicate it might slightly decrease total cholesterol, but more research is needed.
Does prickly pear have anti-inflammatory effects?
Yes! It is rich in antioxidants and betalains, which combat inflammation. Chronic inflammation contributes to many diseases, so that it might offer protective benefits.
Could prickly pear support liver health?
Potentially. Research suggests its antioxidant properties may protect the liver against damage, primarily from alcohol consumption. However, studies are ongoing.
Can prickly pear help with hangover symptoms?
There’s limited but intriguing evidence. One study showed that the extract reduced hangover severity when taken before alcohol consumption. It may lessen inflammation associated with hangovers.
Does prickly pear have any effect on weight management?
It might contribute. The fruit is fiber-rich and low in calories, making it a filling food. Fiber promotes satiety, potentially aiding in weight loss efforts.
Can prickly pear boost the immune system?
The fruit is high in Vitamin C and antioxidants, essential for immune function. More studies are needed to determine its direct impact on specific immune responses.
Are there potential anticancer effects associated with prickly pear?
Laboratory studies suggest the antioxidants in prickly pear might protect against some cancers. Human research is needed to confirm this.
How do I incorporate prickly pear into my diet?
You can eat the young pads (nopales) and the fruit or take supplements. Handle prickly pears with caution due to spines.
Are there any safety concerns with prickly pear?
It’s generally safe in food amounts. Some people experience mild side effects like diarrhea or nausea. Always consult your doctor, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have underlying health conditions.
- Fresh cactus pears 10 pcs
- Nopales/prickly cactus pear
- Seasonal item
- About 2.5 LB
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. It would be best to not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, you should talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Ed. Francesc X. Gelabert. vols. 2 San Fernando de Henares: Editorial Safeliz, 2000. 718. Print.
- Science-Backed Benefits of Prickly Pear Cactus: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/prickly-pear-benefits
- Betalains in Health and Disease: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6162729/
- Immune System and Vitamin C: https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/health-disease/immunity
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6683164/
Last update on 2024-03-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API