Prickly Pear

The Prickly Pear Cactus!

This cactus is found in all types of deserts and throughout North America in dry, rocky areas. Its blooms are seen during the height of summer and can range from pinks to yellow and look similar to a rose.

Early archaeological data shows that Native Americans used prickly pear as food, medicine, a source of needles and containers for water.

Among its medicinal uses, prickly pear can be used for anything that aloe would be used for. This includes digestive complaints, to soothe burns and cuts, and as a laxative.

The cactus can also be juiced and made into a variety of food products. Think jams, jelly, syrup, juices, cocktail mixes, the possibilities are endless!

According to the Mayo Clinic, Prickly pear cactus — or also known as nopal, opuntia and other names — is promoted for treating diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity and hangovers. It's also touted for its antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.

Prickly pear is smaller here in the badlands than many other places in North America, and much care is needed when harvesting. Be sure to scrape off all the small spines before processing.

There are two edible parts of the prickly pear plant: the pad, or nopal, of the cactus which is often treated as a vegetable, and the pear, or fruit. The fruit is sweeter and is often what is used to make sweet treats.