Nopal : Organic

Nopal (cactus) belongs to the Cactaceae family, which includes about 1,500 species of cacti. It is a tropical and subtropical plant that grows in arid and semi-arid regions of Mexico, South Africa, parts of Latin America, and Mediterranean countries. While Spanish explorers did introduce the nopal cactus to Europe, it was primarily brought from central Mexico and became established there during the 16th century.

Nopal has been studied in Mexico for its blood sugar-balancing properties. Mexican researchers found that people with non-insulin-dependent diabetes who are given nopal stems experience a significant drop in blood sugar levels. Other studies have shown that the fiber and pectin in nopal appear to lower blood sugar by decreasing the absorption of sugar in the stomach and intestines. The plant also improves insulin sensitivity and protects the liver from oxidation. Its blood sugar-balancing properties come with no side effects and no liver damage. In traditional Mexican medicine, nopal is often recommended for people with type 2 diabetes.

In addition, nopal has positive effects on cholesterol levels. Studies have shown that daily intake may help lower LDL and total cholesterol levels. HDL and triglycerides were not affected in the studies.

Nopal cactus contains substantial amounts of ascorbic acid, vitamin E, carotenoids, fiber, amino acids, and antioxidant compounds (phenols, flavonoids, betaxanthin, and betacyanin), which have been put forward to account for its health benefits, such as hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic activity, and antioxidant properties. Several reports have documented the abundance of vitamins and minerals in cactus.