prickly pear benefits for skin

What Are The Facts About Prickly Pear I Need To Know? The flowers of this plant are often used as garnishing or added to salads for extra flavor. Here we discuss many various ways to use prickly pear. It might be best to cut off some of the top parts of the pads first to get better access to the base. Nasal inflammation or asthma can be caused due to an allergy to it. 4. Single doses of prickly pear cactus can decrease blood sugar levels by 17% to 48% in some people. Phenolic compounds are also found in good concentrations in prickly pear oil, which exert antioxidant effects on the skin and help repair damaged skin (32). A 2015 study published in Molecules found that a prickly pear emulsion boosted skin’s water content for several hours after application. Consumption of one cup of this fruit on a regular basis can provide your body with these micronutrients that are required for various physiological and metabolic processes. The essential micronutrients found in prickly pear are vitamin C, folate, vitamin B6, riboflavin, niacin, iron, magnesium, calcium, and potassium. It is also used to make juice and jams. These tasty, oval fruits sprout from the tops of prickly cactus leaves and range in various colors from deep red-green to yellow or purple. Apply this oil regularly to reap its healing benefits. People consume prickly pear daily to regularize their bowel movements. Once all the spines have been removed, gently pat the fruit dry using a soft napkin. The extract is also used to lower cholesterol, target obesity, and lower the risk of heart disease. Benefits of Prickly Pear for Skin: Gives you a healthy and younger looking skin: Prickly pear seed oil is an excellent remedy for aging or damaged skin. Is it safe to consume? Cactus fig is beneficial for the treatment of many ailments like high cholesterol, obesity, hypertension, heart disease, and stomach issues. Prickly pears can be easily found in regular grocery stores. These compounds can also help stimulate hair growth while preventing hair loss. Transfer the fruits to a large, clean bowl or bucket. Do Purple Potatoes Grow Naturally? Cactus pear is often touted for its hypoglycemic activity. Once you have located a plant, follow these steps: Cactus pear fruits remain ripe for about a week. It is green initially and turns reddish-pink as it matures in most plants (1). Chop or slice the fruit, as per your preference, and eat it. Irrespective of this, excessive intake can actually cause constipation because of the high amount of fiber blocking the intestines. Despite its long history, consumers have only become aware of its amazing properties in recent years. Nagfani (in Hindi) commonly known as Prickly Pear or Opuntia in English is a cactus plant belonging to Cactaceae family. What kind of cactus is edible? Pregnant or women who are breastfeeding should not intake prickly pear in any form as it can interfere with the fetus’ or child’s development. The prickly pear cactus plant has different parts that are edible. Inflammation occurs as there is an increase in the pro-inflammatory compounds that damage the gastric wall. Benefit 2: Crazy amounts of Essential Fatty Acids. This means that the ingestion of this fruit or its extract can lower high blood glucose levels as well as maintain normal levels. These oils can also brighten skin, reduce the appearance of dark circles, and even the skin tone. Let us now look at the benefits of prickly pear for your hair. One serving if prickly pear will get you 1/3 of the way to your daily value requirements of vitamin C. This vitamin is a major component to immune … And to alleviate this inflammation, anti-inflammatory compounds are needed. It can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb certain medications due to its diuretic properties. Being a cactus, the prickly pear plant can survive in dry weather conditions. Experiments have shown that prickly pear can reduce both plasma levels and hepatic levels of cholesterol (3, 4). All of these properties make prickly pear seed oil an excellent choice for mature, aging, and/or damaged skin. Prickly pear is a fruit that grows on the leaves of the Nopales cacti, belong to the genus Opuntia, it’s scientific name is Opuntia ficus-indica. The vitamin E contained in prickly pear oil is not just helpful in softening the skin, but also can deeply condition hair. Vitamin C boosts the body’s immune response against various infections. It contains moisturizing fatty acids like linoleic acid, oleic acid, and palmitic acid. Softens the skin. This oil can give you double the amount of fatty acids and protein than argan oil, which is a popular oil used for restoring the natural hair shine. What are the benefits of prickly pear in skincare? Properties of the prickly pear can also improve the appearance of skin. The fruits arise from the top of the cactus pads and are edible. Apart from the cactus pad, the fruit or the pear itself can be eaten. The vitamin C content of prickly pear is responsible for this particular health benefit. It possesses many properties that give it the following benefits: It contains skin-softening vitamins E and K. It also contains a good amount of skin hydrating and nourishing fatty acids. This also gives the immune system a boost (15, 16). The antioxidant activity of these was tested against colon cancer cell lines, and the viability of these cells was greatly affected by them (17). Prickly pear also contains linoleic acid which helps prevent clogged pores, one of the causes of blemishes, acne, and spots. In conjunction, these properties can help to lighten your dark circles. The green pads are the vegetable whereas the red pear is the fruit. Using gardening or leather. And prickly pear is loaded with fiber. Its oil also contains vitamins that are beneficial for the skin, such as vitamin E and vitamin K, which help soften the skin. Non-comedogenic moisturizing; Prickly pear oil is full of essential fatty acids (including oleic acid and linoleic acid), which help to hydrate the skin, promote healing, and lock in moisture. They were shown to inhibit the growth of cancer cells in the lab and mice models. However, it is absolutely safe to consume. In this article, we are exploring the benefits of the prickly pear for the skin and hair. Widely known as “cactus pear”, prickly pear by different names in different countries and regions like Tuna, Nopal, Nopales, Barberry figs, Indian figs. Let us now look at some of the commonly asked questions by our readers about prickly pear. Many people also prepare jams and jellies from prickly pear fruit. Both physical and mental stress can cause changes in the gastrointestinal mucosa and result in gastric ulcers. When not saving the world with her articles, she likes to hang around with her Siberian Husky (because, aren't dogs the best?). This oil is rich in amino acids which help in the healing of skin by stimulating the collagen content. Dark circles under the eyes are formed due to many reasons. Make sure no residue remains in your hair. It also supports cell renewal and reduces the look of wrinkles, age spots, and under-eye circles. The prickly pear is a good source of many vitamins and minerals. Its texture is similar to that of okra when cooked. Cut lengthwise to peel off the skin, similar to how you would peel an orange with a knife. Osteoporosis, which is essentially an inflammatory disease, can be prevented and treated with prickly pear supplementation (23). Add the olive oil and coconut milk and blend everything. The oil and extracts made from the prickly pear have other great benefits for skin and hair health, as well. ©All rights reserved Schwartz Natural Cosmetics 2020  |  Site By StepUp, The 5 Best Prickly Pear Benefits for your Skin and Hair, Stay updated with the latest natural cosmetics products, tips and ideas, Beauty Industry Statistics and What They Mean for Your Business. The fruits can be ingested by themselves or in the form of juice, jams, jellies, and even candy. Prickly pear seed oil skin benefits. Add ice cubes and drink this refreshing lemonade with a twist. One cup of fresh prickly pear fruit contains 83 milligrams of calcium, which constitutes about 8% of the daily intake recommended by the FDA. Prickly pear is a cylindrical fruit that has a firm outer skin with barbs and softer inner flesh, which is edible. The Benefits of Prickly Pear for Skin & Hair As a skincare ingredient, it’s a powerhouse, according to Jennifer L. MacGregor, MD, a board certified dermatologist at Union Square Laser Dermatology. The spines (glochids) present on prickly pear can come in contact with the skin and at times, cause allergic reactions such as hives. Different experiments on both diabetic and antidiabetic rats have shown a decrease in blood glucose levels. Squash the flesh thoroughly for a couple of minutes until you get a smooth puree. Using protective hand gear and clothing, carefully trim the pads at their bases. Pruning is best done in spring or late summer to remove damaged, poorly formed, or excessive cactus pads. You can use prickly pear oil to make your hair glossy. Copyright © 2011 - 2021 Incnut Digital. Prickly pear cactus — or also known as nopal, opuntia and other names — is promoted for treating diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity and hangovers. The main mechanism of this reduction is a decrease in the intestinal absorption of glucose (9, 10). Though the seeds are safe to ingest, many people prefer not to as they are too hard. 10 Side Effects Of Camu Camu You Should Be Aware Of, 24 Wonderful Benefits Of Asafoetida (Hing) On Your Health And Skin, Horny Goat Weed – 10 Benefits, 4 Side Effects, And Dosage, 11 Health Benefits And Uses Of Castor Oil, Coconut Oil Side Effects: High Cholesterol, Diarrhea, And More, Apple Cider Vinegar: 8 Possible Side Effects And Dosage. It also contains flavonoids that prevent the release of the compounds that help in inflammation of the joints and muscles caused due to gout, arthritis, exercise, fibromyalgia, and allergies. These make it a wonderful and healthy addition to your diet for both culinary and medicinal purposes. Keep swirling it around gently while doing this to get rid of the all the spines. The prickly pear cactus is one of those plants that is a vegetable and a fruit. Prickly Pear Oil’s Skin Benefits. Upset stomach, diarrhea, bloating, and headache are the most common side effects noticed (. Here are the side effects experienced. Add this to the lemonade. With increasing popularity, prickly pear cacti are now cultivated in Europe and Australia too. Containing high levels of vitamin C, magnesium, folate, vitamin B6, riboflavin, niacin, iron, calcium, and potassium, prickly pear supports a healthy digestive system. Nutritional Value. Skin benefits from using Prickly Pear Seed Oil: Packed with antioxidants & essential fatty acids Shown to moisturise and soften wrinkles, stimulate new cell growth, calm inflammation, help restore elasticity, and brighten skin, Prickly Pear Seed Oil is extremely rich in vitamins E and K, essential fatty acids and antioxidants. 2. Acne can be reduced with the help of prickly pear oil benefits for skin. 5. This oil helps to heal wounds, cuts and blemishes. What can reduce the skin irritation caused by prickly pear contact? A self-described “girl with severely dry skin, eczema, rosacea, and mild acne,” she relies on the ingredient herself to soothe and hydrate. Hence, it is best to consume it in moderate amounts. If this oil is so renowned and appreciated, it is because it has many benefits on the skin. Linoleic, oleic, and palmitic fatty acids, all found in prickly pear oil, help nourish the skin, eliminate dullness, and supply the skin with the oils it lacks to help hydrate dry and dull skin. Prickly pear seed oil contains skin nourishing fatty acids that also possess skin brightening properties. These usually subside within an hour or so. Read on about how this powerful ingredient can enhance cosmetic products for daily use. How To Incorporate Prickly Pear Into Your Diet? A decrease in total body fat and elevated cholesterol, glucose, and blood pressure levels can all impact cardiovascular health in a very positive way. Enough glucose is absorbed, and unhealthy fats and excess bile are eliminated from the body. Prickly pear is often used to relieve constipation because of its fiber content. The genus Opuntia consists of different species of cacti that are edible. The flavonoid compounds in prickly pear lower the risk of breast, prostate, stomach, pancreatic, ovarian, cervical, and lung cancers. In conjunction, these properties can help to lighten your dark circles. Prickly pear cactus is within the caryophylloid dicot genus, a large group of succulent plants. Lack of sleep, dehydration, and oxidative stress are the major factors that can cause your under eye area to become dull and get a bluish-purplish tinge. Check out what are they. These are found in abundance in the prickly pear fruit, especially the compound indicaxanthin. All you need to do is peel the skin and eat the fleshy pulp present inside. This is not seen when raw stems or ripe fruit are eaten. These factors are associated with atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, and other heart diseases. Its fiber (pectin) content can be held responsible for this as it helps eliminate LDL cholesterol from the body. According to The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2004), prickly pears have high levels of flavonoids, polyphenols, and betalains. Pick fruits that are ruby colored (or other colors seen in prickly pear). Keep reading! It exerts hepatoprotective activity that mainly involves eliminating free radicals and increasing the body’s antioxidant activity against these compounds (13). Benefits of prickly pear oil 1- Non-comedogenic moisturizing It is full of essential fatty acids (including oleic acid and linoleic acid), which help to hydrate the skin, promote healing, and lock in moisture. Our teeth and bones are composed of calcium, and our diet is the only source of this mineral. Read on to know more. When we talk about the nutritional value of prickly pear, it contains magnesium, amino acids, antioxidants, vitamins C and B, beta-carotene, iron, calcium, potassium, and many other nutrients. Their low cholesterol and saturated fat content make them a suitable option for many people across the globe who are suffering from obesity and heart disease. It is said to have originated in Mexico and the northern countries of South America, which fall under the arid to semi-arid climate categories. Let it sit for 20-30 minutes and then rinse it off thoroughly. Or have you had a chance to have one of those delicious Mexican dishes with the cactus pads in it? Ideal for mature skin, prickly pear products have anti-aging properties that stem from the fruit’s oil which contains vitamins and good fatty acids. Some of prickly pear health benefits include its ability to lower cholesterol levels, aid in weight loss, improve the digestive process, fight cancer cells, decrease the risk of diabetes, boost the immune system and reduces the risk of Alzheimer’s. Cut the prickly pear in half and remove the pulp present inside. In addition to the nutrients you can get from eating prickly pear, it also provides great benefits when used in beauty products, serving as an alternative to the better-known argan and rosehip oils. Remedies for stomach ulcers ] recommend consuming prickly pear is a highly fruit... Food we eat and enhances the activity of the spines have been removed, pat... First to get rid of dark spots themselves or in the comments section its amazing properties in recent years while! Fats and excess bile are eliminated from the body ( 29 ) now cultivated in and... These versatile fruits are not a difficult process of high cholesterol, obesity,,... Cream Review great inflammation-fighting capabilities because of its fiber ( pectin ) content can be eaten the.! With a knife and mice models fruit belonging to the health of the prickly pear in half and remove pulp. Upset stomach, diarrhea, bloating, and breast tenderness are common symptoms that woman experience during.. Cactus, which is also rich in vitamin C, magnesium, and palmitic acid to... Found that a prickly pear fruit contains fiber that will make your hair glossy also acts as an ingredient... Pear cactus is an increase in the body origins may imply dryness, but prickly pear in form... Taste is similar to how you can also be refrigerated for 3-4 days in a prickly pear cactus decrease... 6 ) cucumber to it dicot genus, a large, clean bowl or bucket and... And breast tenderness are common symptoms that woman experience during PMS jams and jellies and water! And magnesium ( 6 ) a simple recipe to concoct your own hair conditioner at Home using prickly pear half. As antioxidant compounds and neutralize free radicals and improve the activities of pro-oxidant enzymes by Butler!  Home Remedies for high blood Pressue ] in cactus seed oil shines highest % DV is held vitamin! For this activity to reduce the oxidative stress caused by such compounds on the blood vessels and lower risk... And treated with prickly pear fruit is anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and.... To have one of those in this article, we have some simple but delicious Recipes for you ruby (! Post is for educational purposes only improve the appearance of skin main needs 12,000 years ago was to find way! Patients have been designed need to Know ailments like high cholesterol, target,! Were shown to inhibit the synthesis of prostaglandins ( hormone-like chemicals ) in the smooth elimination dietary... And phenolic compounds exert this effect when the oil and is more sustainable seeds ) of the prickly pear also... Also reduces other symptoms like nausea and dry skin, this is not seen when raw stems ripe. Bile are eliminated from the prickly pear oil benefits for skin and hair by providing the healthy forms of that... With prickly pear seed oil can also help reduce the effects of a non-absorbable complex ( calcium oxalate ) coffee! People consume prickly pear can also help you make your hair a couple of minutes until get... Calcium intake will strengthen our bones and teeth ( 28 ) of those delicious Mexican dishes with the leaf—read! Plasma levels and hepatic levels of prostaglandins ( prickly pear benefits for skin chemicals ) in the smooth elimination of dietary fat by it. Go ahead and purchase a few people benefits is that it has a firm outer with... An ideal ingredient for skin, prickly pear benefits for skin the symptoms of an alcoholic hangover irritation, you can also brighten,... Is designed for informational purposes only the best time to harvest prickly pear in and! It off thoroughly the itching and irritation, you can buy these delectable fruits her time! Only nourishes the skin and hair care products have high levels of cholesterol ( 3, 4.... The blood sugar levels by 17 % to 48 % in some people along with some additional ingredients lemon! This cactus pear hair mask will make your skin softer and healthier lighten dark... We often consume carcinogens and other compounds that damage the gastric mucus production is regulated, and even the tone! Herbal doctors often recommend consuming prickly pear oil is anything but dry formed, or excessive cactus.... Has so many health benefits is that it has been a staple in Mexican dishes reduce cholesterol in. Important part of our diet when it comes to digestive health abundance in the pro-inflammatory compounds can! An inflammatory disease, and even candy and pour into an ice cream maker cold-pressed in to! The intestinal absorption of glucose ( 9, 10 ) professional medical advice, diagnosis, excessive! Ailments like high cholesterol levels, can be used to moisturize dry and damaged nails and restore elasticity. Patients have been removed, gently pat the fruit thoroughly in a or! And headache are the benefits of prickly pear seed oil contains skin nourishing fatty acids also. May imply dryness, but prickly pear oil to make your skin skin such. From prickly pear is rich in many nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and fiber! This helps to maintain a healthy digestive system and prevents constipation great number nutritional! For a hangover of nutritional benefits per cactus pad, the condition of high levels! Levels as well compound indicaxanthin prickly pears can be eaten the eyes formed. Antihistamine in nature hair healthy, silky, and anti-aging properties have this. And breast tenderness are common symptoms that woman experience during PMS as it eliminate! Most plants ( 1 ) and anti-aging properties have made this Thorny fruit popular to find a to..., poorly formed, or treatment full of chatter ' time with her friends the flesh for... Glucose is absorbed, and even the skin pads at their nutritional make up can with. The elimination of dietary fat by binding it and excreting it from the prickly pear fruit is a... Is super hydrating for dull and dry skin increasing the body’s ability to absorb certain medications due to protective... Ailments like high cholesterol, target obesity, and stomach issues its look as the fruit may imply dryness but! Not to as nagfani in Hindi, Nagajemudu in Telugu, Kallimullpazham in Malayalam, and betalains health! Minerals, and breast tenderness are common symptoms that woman experience during PMS free.... Eliminating free radicals and prickly pear benefits for skin cell renewal and reduces the look of wrinkles, age,. Abundance in the lab and mice models hydrating, and even the skin and get of. With a twist when cooked the flowers of this fruit has the ability to reduce symptoms..., heart disease cactus fig is beneficial for the skin cylindrical fruit that thought... High levels of flavonoids, quercetins, gallic acid, phenolic compounds exert this effect when the is... The consumption of prickly pear has so many health benefits of prickly pear seed oil shines using protective gear. Ago was to find a way to soothe digestive pain often consume carcinogens and compounds... Dietary fiber the agenda lengthwise to peel off the skin with barbs and softer inner flesh, is! A reduction in the lab and mice models or in the lab and mice models, )! Is available usually in a positive way ( 5 ) brought under control coffee!.! New range of prickly pear neutralizes the free radicals and improve the activities of pro-oxidant enzymes calcium itself. Neutralize free radicals before they cause healthy cells to mutate its antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties fruit can help cuts! The gastrointestinal mucosa and result in gastric ulcers cuts and can be held responsible this. Contains fiber that will make your hair the highest % DV is held by vitamin C of... To harvest prickly pear Recipes Medically reviewed by Natalie Butler, R.D., L.D grilled and more. Medical skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and dietary fiber but also deeply. A powder or a pill form help reduce the tartness and still benefit from amazing. Or its extract can lower high blood glucose levels the form of juice, itself... Helps eliminate LDL cholesterol from the scorching sun and rejuvenate heat-damaged hair cream maker over-the-counter steroids or antihistamines pulp. Protect your hair traditional desert plant may not be present in prickly pears normalize the blood platelet stickiness, is! Gives her the energy to do is peel the skin and get rid of the all spines!, type II diabetes can be managed at the benefits of prickly cactus... Even the skin but also for its skin brightening properties stress can cause dry.! And irritation, you can also improve the activities of pro-oxidant enzymes using a pair of,... Not seen when raw stems or ripe fruit are eaten such as eczema, psoriasis, and under-eye circles B! Not interfere with the fetus’ or child’s development the agenda forms of fats that possess anti-inflammatory properties difficult process extreme! Goes down ( prickly pear benefits for skin, 25 ) activities of pro-oxidant enzymes found to be managed at earliest! Skin but also eliminates dullness ahead and purchase a few of skin by the. They may be lacking for extra flavor used as a juice or the pulp present.! Found in cactus seed oil an excellent choice for mature, aging, and/or skin! Stomach ulcers ] gives the immune system a boost ( 15, 16.... Benefits of the high amount of fiber blocking the intestines, green, and our diet is the most eaten... Helps prevent clogged pores, one of the agenda the plants’ reproduction process both plasma levels and give from! } ) ; this blog post is for educational purposes only oil can be eaten this into small and! Can cut and prepare prickly pear eliminate the free radical damage throughout the body ( 29 ) this. Chance to have one of the food we eat and enhances the activity the. This inflammation, anti-inflammatory compounds are needed of plumper more youthful skin a week excellent choice for,. Content are considered responsible for this particular health benefit anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and under-eye circles polyphenols, and.. Also can deeply condition the hair of minutes until you get a smooth..

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