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Originally native to Mexico, Opuntia ficus-indica (also known as Indian Fig Opuntia) is a species of cactus.
They are grown for their large, sweet fruits, called tunas, which are available in local and commercial markets worldwide. Most culinary references to the "prickly pear" are referred to this plant.
The name "tuna" is also used for this cactus, and for the trade name Opuntia in general. The cactus leaves of Opuntia ficus-indica have been traditionally eaten in Mexico and southern Europe for many years. The cactus pads also provided a source of sticky binding material for adobe bricks during construction.
There are hundreds of varieties of Cactus but only the Opuntia ficus-indica, or Nopal is accepted as the preferred species, widely revered for its extraordinary Health and Nutritional Benefits.
Medical studies around the world are confirming that Nopal is also a valuable health supporting plant as it is so rich in body essential nutrients. They are now calling it a medicinal Plant. Nopal is essentially a non-fat, high-fiber, complex carbohydrate energy food.
- Blood Sugar Regulation
- Digestion
- Colon Cleansing
- Weight Loss
- Syndrome X - metabolic syndrome
- Cholesterol level balance
The extremely high fiber content in Nopal helps curb the appetite and bodyfat build up is reduced while excretions are increased. High dietary fiber intake has also been shown to protect against diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, colon disease as well as significantly helping with weight loss results.
Nopal contains high levels of vegetable protein which helps the body pull fluids back from the tissues into the bloodstream, thereby diminishing cellulite and fluid retention.
It is now used world-wide as a weight loss supplement and for various ailments. Click on the links below for more information and benefit of Nopal powder.
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