The prickly pear cactus can be a real pain in the you-know-what. It’s got spiky leaves and thorns galore, which can be dangerous and hard to deal with. But it’s also got a lot going for it. It’s a tough little plant that can thrive in some pretty harsh conditions, and it’s also got some great nutritional value. So, yeah, it can be a real hassle, but it’s worth it in the end.
Grow it
Cactus pears (Opuntia species) are indigenous to the semi-arid regions of Central and Southern America, according to Cradock, says Eastern Cape-based horticulturalist Marina Jordaan.
She further states that they were introduced to South Africa over three hundred years ago for use as fences to protect crops from wild animals and were exceedingly spiny.
According to Jordaan, the spineless cactus pear is a drought-resistant plant that can thrive in dry climates. It requires minimal irrigation and full sunlight for optimal growth. This makes it a sustainable crop for South Africa, especially in areas with scarce water resources.
Once planted, it can take up to two years for the cactus pear to bear fruit. Proper placement in a sunny location is crucial for the plant’s growth and productivity, she adds.
Cultivars and plant establishment
Planting is best done from spring to early summer. It is recommended that plant density be 5 meters between rows and 3 meters between plants. According to Jordaan, while planting, the leaf should be held upright with the cut end facing downwards and planted to roughly half its length in the soil.
“It is best to have the soil analysed and fertilisation applied according to the analysis.”
Cactus pear is mainly cultivated under dryland conditions, however supplementary irrigation during the last two months before fruit ripening has a positive influence on fruit size, Jordaan adds.
“The leaves can sprout roots in dry soil, and should not receive too much water after planting, to prevent leaf decay.”
Marina Jordaan
Studies conducted at Cradock Research Station identified the following cultivars as the most productive in dry-land conditions: Meyers (red), Van As (white), Nudosa (white), X28 (yellow), Gymno carpo (pink), and Morado (white), as states by Jordaan.
The user presents compelling evidence
Nomasoja Mahem grew up consuming prickly pear, also known as itolofiya, in Matatiele, in the Eastern Cape. She witnessed his father this year use cactus for medicinal purposes.
“My father drinks cactus juice. He says that it boosts his knee flexibility and helps restore mucus production, which is very good for someone in their 60s.”
Through her research, she discovered numerous medicinal benefits.
“After a week of using cactus water, I felt a difference in my joints, they were no longer painful when doing squats mostly.”
“I noticed loose stool while consuming it. I’ve seen a big improvement in my menstrual cycle; less pain and blood clots, weight control, glowing skin and healthy hair.”
Nomasoja Mahem
She details that she chops the cactus leaves, adds them to cold water, lets them soak overnight, and drinks the mixture every morning.
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Health benefits
According to Samanth Travas, an agronomist based in Arusha, Tanzania who graduated from the University of Pretoria, prickly pear cactus can help in reducing blood sugar levels, lowering cholesterol, managing hangovers, and reducing inflammation.
The prickly pear cactus is also an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, magnesium, and potassium.
“Research suggests these cactus properties can help regulate blood pressure, muscle contraction and blood sugar levels in diabetics while also boosting immune system functioning and heart.”
Travas says that while this plant is usually considered safe to consume, there have been reports of minor diarrhoea, bloating, and nausea and that consuming excess prickly pear seeds can make you constipated.
The stems and the prickly pear fruit are edible, but it is worth noting that the fruit is a healthier option to consume, according to Travas.
“The spines are burned off before the fruit is peeled and eaten raw or processed into jam or juice.”
The stems can also be eaten raw as well as boiled and grilled, she adds.
Be careful
Travas recommends that pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid eating the prickly pear cactus as a precautionary measure. However, she clarifies that there is currently no concrete evidence suggesting that it is unsafe to consume during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
“Overconsumption of the prickly pear cactus can result in blood sugar and electrolyte imbalances that may pose harm to both mothers and their babies.”
“Diabetics and patients due for surgery should be cautious when consuming the plant as blood sugar levels may drop below optimum levels.”
Travas suggests that people who take medications should consult their doctors before using prickly pear cactus home remedies to avoid any potential health complications.
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