NOPAL



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NOPAL
Opuntia ficus - indica Miller Linnaeus Fam. Cactaceae.

Cacti family.

Shrub description of some 5m. tall, branched stems with green, its trunk is made up of ribs flattened. The flowers vary from yellow to red fruits are green, red or purple, commonly called tunas. Lives in dry climates, dry and mild. It is grown in arid and semiarid, is associated with Xeric scrublands and forests of oak and pine. with the basal lignified by transforming the spoonbills forming the branch, with the narrowest heart - shaped and rounded the top. The area is populated by protrusions called areoles, carrying a bundle of yellow spines. Branches are called cladodes. The leaves are very small, and very little time remaining in the areoles. The flowers are inserted into the upper edge of the cladodes, and carry many fatty sepals and petals oval, pointed, intense yellow. The fruits have the same characteristics as areoles, with plenty of flesh and many seeds. This species comes from South America, but growing in all the warm places. The flowers are harvested in spring and the cladodes, throughout the year. The use of this cactus plant dates back to pre - Hispanic times. It is cultivated in several states of Mexico and Morelos, Tlaxcala, and the Federal District of Mexico. Today the Nopal is one of the most popular remedies for diabetes. The ribs are prepared with water for its liquefied or be swallowed or eaten raw in salads. It is said that this plant, is also a good remedy for gastritis and intestinal cramping, although the most recommended for these evils, the root is boiled and mixed with guava. Other applications, but less frequent, are for the affections of the lungs and as an aid in childbirth.

Used parts: Flowers and cladodes.

Chemical compounds mucilage, sugar, glutamic acid, citric acid, malic acid, oxalic acid, vitamin C.

Properties: Nutritious, diuretic, antispasmodic, emollient.

How to use: Infusion, poultice.

Of interest: The fruit is a good nutrient that can be dried and stored. With him are preparing excellent jams. The cladodes are used in some areas to feed pigs. From the fruits can be obtained by fermentation, a distilled spirits.


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