The Healing Properties Of Nopal

Nopal is a cactus spread throughout the American continent, which grows on arid territory. It can be planted in any type of soil and is not difficult to grow. That is why it is so well known on this continent. In addition, the healing properties of nopal are numerous.

The nutritional properties of nopal

Nopal is rich in calcium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, carbohydrates, nitrogen, fiber, vitamins A, B, C and K, chlorophyll, riboflavin and protein. There are many studies that certify that nopal is very good for health, stimulating the glands, immunity, nervous system, circulatory, digestive and respiratory.

In addition, nopal has external uses: it is used in skin and hair treatments. You can find it in soaps, shampoos, hair conditioners, moisturizing gels, lotions, eye makeup and more. In traditional medicine, nopal is used to treat minor wounds and burns.

It can be consumed in different ways: as juice, sauce, powder, sweets, lollipops, salads, jam, soups, broths, combined with cereals, flax or fruits. It is used as fodder, and the main ribs can become brown. It is most often used in combination with fruit in a blender.

The healing properties of nopal

• Strong antibiotic: inhibits or even suppresses bacteriological activity. Nopal (main nerves) is used as a compress on wounds and infections, having beneficial effects on the skin.
• Treats atherosclerosis: it has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Regular consumption of fresh juice or prickly pear powder helps prevent this disease.

• Prevents the spread of cancer: nopal contains many fibers, soluble and insoluble. The latter absorb water and help food pass through the digestive system. It dilutes the concentration of cells that can be carcinogenic in the colon, preventing the evolution of the disease.
• Balances cholesterol due to amino acids, vitamin B3 and fiber. Nopal prevents the deposition of sugars in the blood and their conversion into fats, reducing cholesterol and triglyceride levels. It also eliminates bile secretions that can turn into cholesterol.
• Improves the activity of the colon: due to its active components, it prevents the formation of fats and the absorption of carbohydrates. Nopal contains fiber that absorbs glucose from the intestines, keeping this organ clean and in good working order.

• Improves diabetes. Because this plant contains 18 amino acids, the body will receive more energy and will be less tired, thus reducing glucose levels. It strengthens the liver and pancreas and increases insulin sensitivity, stimulating the movement of glucose to the body’s cells. Nopal also decreases insulin production.

The lesser known healing properties of nopal

• Helps digestion due to vitamin B (B1, B2 and B3) and C, calcium, potassium, magnesium, sodium and iron. Having antioxidant properties, it provides protection against food toxins and slows down the dangerous effects of alcohol or “heavy” foods.

• Prevents constipation: nopal fibers help digestion, which facilitates intestinal transit.
• It is an ally against obesity: also due to the large amount of fiber, it slows down the process of absorption of food and nutrients into the blood, facilitating their elimination. It allows faster access of fluids to the blood, which reduces water retention and cellulite. We recommend that you eat nopal with fruits such as oranges. The insoluble fibers they contain give the feeling of satiety, reducing appetite. In addition, it normalizes intestinal transit, the body eliminating excesses accordingly.
• Strengthens the immune system. Nopal contains many vitamins, especially the complex of vitamins A, B and C, minerals and many amino acids that help eliminate toxins and detoxify the liver. The body is protected from viruses and bacteria due to the phytochemical compounds of nopal.

• Prevents damage to the nervous system, helps you relax and get rid of problems associated with depression and emotional imbalance.
• It is an excellent diuretic. The juice and healing properties of nopal reduce inflammation of the urinary system, relieving kidney and bladder pain.

Photo source: Razi Marysol Machay, Diógenes el Pacífico, David de la Luz, Javier Lastras, Roberto González and Luis Daniel Carbia Cabeza