Prickly Pear Cactus 20:1  (sold as Nopal)

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Botanical: Nopal opuntia

Family: Cactaceae (cactus)

Other common names:  Nopal, Opuntia, Smooth Prickly Pear, Tuna Blanca, Nochtli, Indian Fig

Prickly Pear Cactus is a supplement that is gaining recognition for its ability to lower blood sugar levels, thus helping to prevent diabetes mellitus.  This herb is famous as a hangover inhibitor.  Prickly Pear Cactus is also said to be good for the digestive system, and is loaded with many B-vitamins.

Disclaimer:
The information presented herein by Viable Herbal Solutions is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.

History and Uses:
Prickly Pear Cactus, often referred to by its genus name of Nopal, is a large cactus native to the desert southwest of North America, notably Mexico. It grows up to four meters in height and produces numerous reddish fruits.  The entire plant can be used as a food source (once you pluck the spines! ) that is nutritionally impressive.  Prickly Pear Cactus contains large amounts of vitamins B1, B6, niacin, riboflavin and pantothenic acid.  But Prickly Pear Cactus is gaining a reputation for its action regarding blood sugar and hangovers.  Prickly Pear Cactus is believed to lower blood glucose levels, partly due to its coating of the gastrointestinal tract.  This same coating effect may be responsible for its effectiveness in tests in which people who ingested Prickly Pear Cactus before drinking alcohol suffered significantly less discomfort from hangovers than those who did not. (Prickly Pear Cactus is said to be effective only if it is taken prior to drinking.  For easing the after-effects of a hangover, try Herbal Rescue.)  Prickly Pear Cactus may also be effective in treating gastrointestinal infections, strengthening the tissues of the digestive tract and in lowering cholesterol.  It may also be useful topically in the healing of minor scrapes and burns.

Ingredients: 100% Prickly Pear Cactus (sold as Nopal) 20:1 Botanical Extract - Our products contain 100% pure plant-based/natural materials using no fillers, grains, yeast, sugars, binders, excipients, starches, or synthetic materials.

Recommended Dosage:
Take one (1) or two (2) capsules, up to three (3) times each day with water at mealtime.

Contraindications:
Pregnant and nursing women should not use Nopal, nor should those who have severe liver or kidney disease, since there has been limited research into its effects.  The herb may cause abdominal bloating, nausea and diarrhea, and it should never be taken in conjunction with prescription diabetes medications, because it may cause hypoglycemia (blood sugar that is too low).  Diabetics should always monitor their blood sugar levels carefully.

Capsule Information:
Our Prickly Pear Cactus supplements are encapsulated in 100% Gluten-free, Vegetable Cellulose, Certified Kosher, size "00" Capsules. (click here for size comparison) Each capsule contains approximately 600 mgs.