Nopal

Species Name: Opuntia ficus-indica or Opuntia Lasiacanta.

Also known as: Prickly pear, bunny ears, beaver tail cacti, cactus pear, and Indian fig.

Nopals, most often found in Mexico, are vegetables made from the young stem of prickly pear. They must be carefully peeled to remove the spines before they can be cooked.

They are sold fresh or canned, but can also be found dried. They are used in a variety of Mexican dishes.

What is Nopal: Nopal is a cactus native to Mexico. The pads and stems of the nettle, or prickly pear, are used for various medical conditions and treatments as well as a staple food and beverage.

Home remedies using Nopal:

Benefits of Nopal:

Nopal is often used to relieve the symptomatic effect of alcohol, or hangover, including dry mouth and nausea.

Nopal is also thought to lower fats and cholesterol in the blood, and is becoming has been touted as a means to decrease blood sugar levels and control diabetes. Nopal has long been a dietary staple in its native habitats.

Nopal contains a high percentage of carbohydrate fibers (known as mucilage) insoluble in water, but able to absorb water. For that reason, it swells up to form a bulky paste when it’s exposed to fluids.

The fiber component produces a hypoglycemic activity by affecting the intestinal uptake of glucose. In double-blind studies, administration of nopal resulted in insulin concentrations favorably affected.

Uses of Nopal:

Nopal is used for diabetes, hangover, nutrient qualities, soothes burns, and regulates bowel movements, (which eliminates some of the causes of colon cancer), It is known to reduce cholesterol, helps to prevent clogged arteries, reduces or eliminates gastric problems, aids in digestion and helps eliminate liver problems, aids in weight reduction, and is nutrient rich.

Build-up in the liver is prevented, while fat break down and excretion is increased. Insoluble fibers such as Lignin are known for increasing satiety and eliminating excessive binges.

Nopal's vegetable protein helps the body pull fluids from the tissues back into the bloodstream thereby diminishing cellulite and fluid retention. Nopal’s seventeen amino acids, fibers, vitamins and minerals address the needs of a vegetarian diet.

Nettle can be used fresh, dried, or as a tincture or elixir.

Side Effects of Nopal:

Pregnant and nursing women and those with severe liver or kidney disease should not use Nopal.

Nopal may cause abdominal bloating, nausea and diarrhea, and it should never be taken in conjunction with prescription diabetes medications, because it may cause hypoglycemia (blood sugar that is too low). Diabetics should always monitor their blood sugar levels carefully.