Prickly pear tree

Nopal, a discreet ally of the famous prickly pear

The cactus's fleshy and resistant stem, rich in water and mucilage, is used in cosmetics for its natural soothing and moisturizing properties.

Nopal, the skin of the desert

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.

Manufacturing prickly pear tree

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.

Properties prickly pear tree

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.

Name and function INCI prickly pear tree

Opuntia ficus-indica leaf extract

    • Skin conditioning - Maintains skin in good condition

SOWÉ Botanic Lab Quality Guarantees

We use prickly pear tree organic with certification COSMOS  Ecocert.

Composition of the prickly pear cactus

  • Water
  • Soluble and insoluble fibers
  • Mucilages
  • Minerals: calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron
  • Vitamins: C, B1, B2, B3
  • Amino acids: proline, arginine, glutamine
  • Flavonoids: quercetin, isorhamnetin
  • Phenolic acids: ferulic acid, gallic acid
  • Pigments: betalains (depending on the variety)

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