Opuntia karwinskiana
Salm-Dyck
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(c) Daniela Fernández y Fernández, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC), uploaded by Daniela Fernández y Fernández
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(c) nasua, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC), uploaded by nasua
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(c) Carlos Domínguez-Rodríguez, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC), uploaded by Carlos Domínguez-Rodríguez
Description
A tropical cactus (Cactaceae) with edible fruit.
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Edible Uses
The fruits are up to 30mm long. The tender young stem segments of various species are often cooked as a vegetable. Known as ‘nopals’ in Mexico, where they are a common ingredient in numerous dishes, they can be eaten raw or cooked, used in marmalades, soups, stews and salads. The most commonly used species are Opuntia ficus-indica and Opuntia matudae, although the stems of almost all Opuntia species are edible.
Medicinal Uses
The root is used in the treatment of dysentery. We have no further specific information on medicinal uses for this species, but the following notes are likely to apply universally to Opuntia species and other related genera. The flesh of tender young stem segments can be applied as a poultice to reduce inflammation. The mucilage and soluble fibre found in the flowers and stem segments have been shown to help control blood-sugar levels associated with adult-onset diabetes. There is clinical evidence that the soluble fibre in the stem segments helps reduce blood cholesterol levels.
Known Hazards
The plant has numerous minutely barbed glochids - these are barbed spines that are usually small to minute and are very sharp and brittle. The glochids are very easily dislodged when the plant is touched and can penetrate the skin where, because of their barbs, they become stuck and are very difficult to see and remove. They can cause considerable irritation and discomfort. Opuntia species can contain quite high levels of oxalic acid, especially in older parts of the plant. Perfectly alright in small quantities, foods containing oxalic acid should not be eaten in large amounts since it can lock-up other nutrients in the food, especially calcium, thus causing mineral deficiencies. The oxalic acid content will be reduced if the plant is cooked. People with a tendency to rheumatism, arthritis, gout, kidney stones or hyperacidity should take especial caution if including this plant in their diet since it can aggravate their condition.
Distribution
It is a tropical plant.
Where It Grows
Mexico,
Cultivation
Requires a sunny position in a well-drained soil.
Other Uses
The plant is grown as a hedge. The spiny stems act as an effective stock-proof barrier.
Synonyms
Also Known As
Nacas vaca
References (1)
- Segura, S. et al, 2018, The edible fruit species in Mexico. Genet Resour Crop Evol (2018) 65:1767–1793
