The nopal cactus is a Mexican plant that belongs to the cactus family. It is also commonly known as palera or prickly pear cactus. The nopales are fleshy, arboreal plants whose stems are flat, oblong, of medium green color and provided with two kinds of thorns, some long and hard, and others short and thin.

They are found from the north to the center of the country and reach their greatest complexity and richness in the central Altiplano.

Thanks to its high content of pectins and soluble fiber, it can help regulate blood sugar levels, which makes it a suitable food for diabetics. It is very hydrating, low in calories and, in addition, raw nopal is rich in flavonoids, which is why it has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.