Prickly pear cactus, that fruit that came from afar and is now a symbol of the Mediterranean.

Fig prickly pear pears are the figs of a cactus found in many southern Italian and Mediterranean countries. In reality, they are native to Central America and rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are therefore an excellent product, perfect for preventing nutritional deficiencies, especially in summer.
Valentina Rorato • July 20, 2020 * last modified on September 1, 2023
Health
Nutrition
Properties and benefits of foods
Validated by the Scientific Committee of Ohga
The prickly pear cactus is one of the symbols of the southern Italian regions, but in reality this fruit, and especially the plant, is not native to the countries around the Mediterranean Sea and has nothing to do with India, despite its evocative name. The cactus originated in Mexico and then spread to Europe, Africa, and even parts of Asia thanks to the Spanish conquistadors.

Characteristics of the prickly pear cactus
1. The plant
2. Nutritional value
3.
Features 4. Contraindications
5. How to eat
The prickly pear cactus
is the plant that produces the prickly pear cactus fruits. It is a cactus, also known as Opuntia ficus-indica, and belongs to the cactus family (Cactaceae). The plant is characterized by broad, thick, flat leaves with sharp spines. It produces beautiful, colorful flowers that develop into edible, spherical fruits, also known as prickly pear cactus fruits.

But why were they called prickly pear cacti if they are originally from Mexico? It is said that the name was chosen by Christopher Columbus. In 1492 he landed in America, thinking he was in India. When he brought these fruits to the royal court, they were so called. In reality, the Aztecs had already called them nopals.

The fruits can have intense colors, ranging from yellow to red, which creates striking color contrasts. Their shape can vary depending on the season. The rounder fruits are considered early, while the elongated fruits ripen late. However, their weight ranges from 150 to 400 grams.

Nutritional value
: Not only the fruit of the prickly pear is eaten, but also the petals and leaves. Below you will find the nutritional value per 100 grams of fruit. Keep in mind that the smallest fruit weighs more than 150 grams.

Water 83.2 grams
Calories 63 kcal
Protein 0.8 grams
Fat 0.1 grams
Cholesterol 0
Carbohydrates 12 grams
Fiber 5 grams
Sodium 1 mg Potassium
190 mg
Calcium 30 mg
Phosphorus 25 mg
Iron 0.4 mg
Vitamin C 18 mg
Vitamin A (retinol equivalent) 10 μg
Properties
Prickly pear cactus have numerous beneficial properties, which is why they are considered a superfood. In Mexican folk medicine, the pulp and juice of the cactus are used to treat skin wounds, bloating, digestive problems, and urinary tract infections. What stands out about the nutritional values is the high content of potassium, calcium and phosphorus. And the important contribution of vitamins C and A. In addition, if you want to counteract sluggish bowel function, this product contains an excellent amount of fiber and the caloric value is moderate.

Contraindications:
Fig cactus fruits are generally considered safe. However, some people cannot tolerate this fruit and experience symptoms such as nausea, mild diarrhea, and bloating. In addition, there is a risk of intestinal obstruction in the event of excessive consumption. Also, be careful about blood sugar levels: Prickly pear cactus may lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. Be extra alert if you suffer from hypoglycaemia or are already taking medication to regulate it.

How do you eat them?
To eat prickly pear, you must first pick and peel them. This is not so obvious, because they are full of spines. Wear gloves and hold the fruit under running water: this will help clean them and reduce pressure. Cut the skin lengthwise and peel the fruit vertically, removing the two ends first. You can then slice them and eat them as they are. They are delicious in fruit salads, for making jam or fruit juice, and they also go well with meat dishes.