The cactus on which the prickly pear rests has the sweet name of Opuntia ficus-indica, or the nopal, and it's a marvel: it doesn't require watering, its young rackets are edible like a vegetable and thanks to its thorns, its fruits have few enemies. The central organ of the prickly pear cactus is not a leaf, but a modified stem: flattened, thick and full of water, it ensures photosynthesis, stores moisture and serves as an anchor point for the flower and the fruit. It is this which allows the cactus to survive in the most extreme conditions.

This cactus can be used as a fodder plant, helps combat erosion, and requires little maintenance. It is fully in line with permaculture. Although the prickly pear cactus sometimes becomes invasive, it can be effectively controlled. It is one of the plants that has a great future ahead of it with climate change.

The snowshoes are harvested by hand, generally young, when they are still tender and rich in mucilage: a natural plant gel known for its soothing, moisturizing, and protective properties. After harvesting, they are carefully peeled, cleaned, and then crushed to extract the plant material.

This pulp can then be integrated into cosmetic treatments: masks, gels, lotions or creams, especially for sensitive or sun-exposed skin. It is also used in certain food traditions, fermented or cooked, and serves as fertilizer or natural food for animals.