The latest arrival on the super food scene is the prickly pear cactus, according to much recent research and a new study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology and Diabetes Care.
Prickly Pear Cactus is grown in the western United States and Mexico. Long a staple of traditional Mexican cuisine, the benefits of this cool plant are just starting to be discovered. Virtually every part of the plant — its flat plate, its flower, and its fruit — are edible and nutritious.
The cactus is packed with flavonoids, the compound also found in red wine which is known to improve the body’s response to allergens and viruses. Flavenoids are also believed to fight cancer.
However the healthful journey doesn’t stop there — the cactus pads are packed with minerals like:
- potassium
- calcium
- iron
- and magnesium is found in the pads as well as beta-carotene (a form of vitamin A) and vitamin C, making them a rival to spinach in healthfulness
- The juice from the cactus can heal cuts like aloe vera
According to a recent University of Arizona study, the plant’s fruit contains a special pectin which decreases LDL cholesterol levels and may help the body stabilize its glucose response. The aforementioned study also found its pads to be effective in warding off Type II Diabetes, the adult onset type.
The prickly pear cactus is a delicious addition to pasta salads, soups, and more. Next time you’re in the market – give this super food a chance.
Have you ever tried Cactus? If so, how. If not, will you be trying it.
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Great article, Jason. I love Cactus – especially in sliced form in sandwiches, veggie tacos and with rice. They are soooooo good.
Cool thing is you can find (jars of cactus) in big grocers like Jewel, Kroger and Walmart. Look in the bean aisle.
Meijers (at least in the Midwest) also carries cut cactus, it’s in the Mexican food section, canned. Whole Foods market carries fresh cactus leaves, so that would be my best recommendation to avoid yucky preservatives!
Hi, my dad and I found some not too far from our house. :] We know it’s healthy for you. He eats the blooms, but how would you prepare the actual pads. Those pricklies are little buggers. What do you do about them when cooking? Do you peel the skin off?