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.

Weekly Super Food Spotlight – The Cactus is from groovy vegetarian