Nopal - Nutritious Prickly Pear
Nopal (Opuntia ficus-indica) is the Mexican-Spanish name given to an edible cactus known as Prickly Pear. The fleshy Nopal stems called "paddles" and "tuna" have been consumed by indigenous populations in many parts of Central America and Mexico for thousands of years. Surviving in harsh arid terrain, Nopal has been a reliable source of food for both the people and livestock, especially during times of drought. For these ancient cultures, Nopal was also a recommended panacea to help with digestive, respiratory and skin ailments, high blood sugar, cholesterol, rheumatism, etc. In several regions of Latin America Nopal is a staple vegetable used in various dishes such as salads, soups, snacks, juices, jams and sauces.
Due to its nutritional benefits, Nopal has gained popularity and is available in powder form as a stand-alone dietary supplement or as an ingredient in various applications.
Continue reading to find out more about this sturdy cactus and the nutrients stored within its juicy paddles...
General Information
Native to Mexico and the southwestern regions of the United States, Nopal is now found growing in countries in the Mediterranean and Africa as well as in China and other parts of Asia.
The most dominant part of Nopal are its fleshy cladodes or paddles, often mistaken as leaves, but which are actually modified stems or branches. Growing out of these paddles are clusters of fine, barbed spines which are modified leaves. Nopal bears yellow flowers which mature into reddish purple fruits. Both the paddles and fruits are edible and are eaten raw or cooked as a vegetable. Nopal paddles have a crisp and mucilaginous texture with a light, slightly tart taste similar to green beans.
Nutrients and Benefits
Nopal has good concentrations of vital nutrients that play a key role in maintaining good health.
It contains a good dose of vitamins A, C and the B vitamins thiamine, riboflavin and niacin. It contains the vital minerals potassium, calcium, magnesium, sodium and iron. A good source of both insoluble and soluble fiber, Nopal also contains betalains, polyphenols, sterols and glycoproteins. Of the 22 commonly known amino acids 18 are found in Nopal, including the essential omega-3's and omega-6's.1
Nopal's' many benefits include:
- Strengthening the immune system
- Helping to eliminate toxins
- Providing energy and helping ease fatigue
- Helping promote healthy blood sugar levels due to its low glycemic index
- Helping maintain healthy total cholesterol, triglyceride and LDL levels Supporting cardiovascular health
- Improving digestion and aiding in effective weight management due to the presence of soluble and insoluble fiber
Product Specifications/Applications
NP Nutra's Nopal Powder (organic) is an insoluble, convection-dried, creamy green to brown powder that is certified Organic, Kosher and Food Grade, and is produced in an ISO 22000 certified facility. Nopal Powder (organic) is used as a standalone dietary supplement and an ingredient in dietary blends, functional foods, beverages and pet supplements. Nopal is also used as an alternative sweetener and natural food coloring.
Contact us for a free sample and further product information.
References:
1 https://www.livestrong.com/article/545412-nopal-for-weight-loss/
