myCSUSM
Plant Details
Opuntia littoralis
Prickly pear
Location(s):
Ethnobotany Garden
McMahan House
Water Use: 1-Very Low
Growth Habit: Shrub
Seasonality: Evergreen
Ethnobotanical Use: The pads reduce tissue inflammation and edema when applied to contusions or sprains; when mixed with water, the pulp has a cooling effect on esophageal and stomach iritations; when taken before a meal, the cactus reduces blood sugar concentrations; the fruit serves as a popular juice, jelly, and wine base.
