Nopal is derived from the succulent, dethorned flat stems of the “prickly pear”. As a vegetable Nopal is rich in insoluble and soluble dietary fiber and contain vitamins (vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin K, riboflavin and vitamin B6), minerals (magnesium, potassium, and manganese, iron and copper) and biologically unavailable calcium oxalate. Nopal provides essential amino acids in the form of easily-digestible protein, and nopal contains some mucilage and pectins that help support the digestive system. Nopal reduces the glycemic effect. •
Nopal as a diuretic, nopal helps prevent sugars, fat and starch from entering into the bloodstream and attaching to artery walls. Nopal supports healthy liver and pancreas functions and is beneficial for the prostate gland. Nopal stimulates urine flow, neutralizing toxins and waste in the body. Nopal helps cleanse the bladder and lymphatic system, lowering sugar levels in the blood.
Nopal may also be used to help reduce fevers by stimulating perspiration. Nopal has been known to treat respiratory problems and contribute to the lowering of blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Known as prickly pear cactus in America, desert natives like to eat its tasty ripe fruit. In Mexico its succulent, dethorned flat stems are also used as food.
History: Indian Fig Opuntia is a species of cactus and a long-domesticated crop plant important in agricultural economies throughout arid and semiarid parts of the world grown primarily for its fruit crop and for the vegetable nopales (the stem Nopal). The prickly pear cactus is an important botonical in Hispanic culture. It pictured on the flag of Mexico. Prickly pear is called Indian fig, spineless cactus, devil's tongue, tuna, and nopal, its common Central American name. Native to Mexico and other Southwestern regions, nopal, a member of the cactus family, is commonly referred to as “prickly pear”.
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