Opuntia – Nopal cactus flower powder

Nopal, an edible cactus from the Cactaceae family, is known for its adaptability to arid climates and its many benefits. The flowers, rich in gentle ingredients, are dried at low temperatures to preserve their qualities. Ground into a powder, they easily integrate into a natural wellness routine.

Description

Fine powder ranging from pinkish beige to light yellow in color depending on the batch, with a uniform texture and a mild, slightly tangy flavor. A discreet plant and floral odor.

Nomenclature

• Common names: Nopal, prickly pear, edible cactus
• Latin name: Opuntia spp.
• Family: Cactaceae
• Part used: Flowers
• Form: Powder
• Origin: Central and South America
• English name: Nopal cactus flower powder
• German name: Nopalflower powder
• Name in Spanish: Polvo de flor de nopal
• Name in Italian: Polvere di fiore di fico d'India
• Name in Arabic: مسحوق زهرة الصبار (Masḥūq Zahra al-Sabbār)

Main virtues

Used in local traditions to promote digestive balance, nopal flower powder is also rich in gentle antioxidants. It is valued in cosmetic treatments to soften and revitalize the skin, or as an ingredient in nutritional and natural preparations.

Main constituents

Flavonoids, mucilages, betalains (natural pigments), organic acids, soluble fibers, trace elements.

Use and dosage

• Infusion: 1/2 to 1 teaspoon in 200 ml of simmering water, let infuse for 10 minutes, filter.
• Supplement: 1/2 teaspoon in a smoothie or vegetable juice.
• Mask: Mix with floral water for a gentle paste to apply to the face or scalp.

Precautions, side effects and contraindications

• Mild laxative effect possible with excessive use.
• Avoid during pregnancy or breastfeeding without professional advice.
• Store away from air, light and humidity.

History and origin

Mesoamerican populations used the Nopal plant as a whole for their dietary and medicinal needs. The flower, particularly in powder form, is now enjoying renewed interest in modern natural products, for its traditional virtues and versatility.

Miscellaneous information

• Storage: in an opaque, airtight container, in a dry place.
• Packaging: brown glass jar, lined kraft bag or metal box.
• Appearance: fine beige to pinkish powder.
• Smell: vegetal, sweet and slightly tangy.

Sources and references

• Pl@ntUse – https://uses.plantnet-project.org
• Native American Herbal Medicine Corpus
• Ethnobotanical data from arid zones
• Literature on plant superfoods

🔎 Information

The products on aromacentre.fr are not medicines. They are natural, plant-based treatments. All usage advice on our site is for informational purposes only. Any additional requests should be made to a qualified healthcare professional. In accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 December 2006 on nutrition and health claims made on foods, we are unable to publish this information on the site. Taking this product does not exempt you from consulting a doctor or prescribing it. Ask your doctor or healthcare practitioner for advice. Be sure to read the precautions for use before using any medicinal plants. The use of herbal preparations is not recommended without consulting your doctor or pharmacist. The substances they contain may interact with medications prescribed by the patient, reducing their therapeutic effectiveness or causing toxicity. They can also worsen the weakening of the body's vital functions, thus exposing the patient to increased morbidity and life-threatening risks.

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