Health Facts On Barrel Cactus Fruit
Barrel Cactus Fruit is scientifically called as “ Ferocactus wislizeni ”.
ORIGIN OF BARREL CACTUS FRUIT
Fishhook barrel cactus is a species of flowering plant in the cactus family Cactaceae, native to northern Mexico and the southern United States.
More specifically, it can be found in southern Arizona, southern New Mexico, El Paso County, Texas ,northern Sonora ,Chihuahua, Mexico.
OTHER NAMES OF BARREL CACTUS FRUIT
ENGLISH : Southwestern Barrel Cactus, Fishhook Barrel Cactus, Candy Barrel Cactus, Arizona Barrel Cactus, compass barrel cactus
LITHUANIAN : Storadyglis ferokaktusas
RUSSIAN : Ферокактус Вислизена
SPANISH : Viznaga Hembra, Biznaga De Agua, Biznaga-barril de Nuevo México
SWEDISH : Smal djävulstunga
APPEARANCE OF BARREL CACTUS FRUIT
The fishhook barrel cactus typically grows to a diameter of roughly 2.25 ft (0.69 m) .
The fruits are green when unripe, yellow after the flower dries up, and persist atop the cactus long after the flower is gone, sometimes for more than a year.
TASTES OF BARREL CACTUS FRUIT
Their fleshy yellow interior surrounds a cavity that is filled with small black seeds, much like poppy seeds. The fresh fruit is tart and lemony with hints of rose and guava, while the seeds impart a neutral nutty flavour.
VARIETIES OF BARREL CACTUS FRUIT
There are six species of barrel cactus in the region. The most common in the Tucson area are Ferocactus wislizeni, Fishhook barrel, Ferocactus emoryi, Coville barrel .
Subspecies, varieties, forms and cultivars of plants belonging to the Ferocactus wislizeni group
• Ferocactus wislizeni Britton & Rose: (subsp. wislizeni) Central spines 4, forming a cross, the lowermost stoutest, and often hooked, 8-10 cm long. Radial spines about 12 needle- to bristle-like, to 5 cm. Flowers yellow to yellowish orange to red
• Ferocactus wislizeni subs. ajoensis Fencl & Kalas
• Ferocactus wislizeni var. albispinus (Toumey) Y.Itô
NUTRITIONAL CONTENTS OF BARREL CACTUS FRUIT
Barrel cactus fruit is rich in vitamin A and vitamin C. Its pulp can be applied externally as an analgesic. Iron, calcium, vitamin C, vitamin E, and more are all found in cacti.
Health Facts On Barrel Cactus Fruit
Dense Micro nutrient : Barrel Cactus fruit contains essential micro nutrients such as iron, magnesium, vitamin C, potassium, calcium, and vitamin B6. Vitamin C and magnesium have the highest percentage values in a serving of cactus fruit.
Great Weight-loss food: Barrel Cactus is low in calories, but high in micro nutrients, Barrel Cactus fruit is a great choice for those looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.
Improves Digestion: High levels of fibre and anti-inflammatory properties make the Barrel Cactus fruit support proper digestion.
Good for Heart Health: The Barrel Cactus Fruit is a great source of fibre, which is why the fruit has been associated with lowering cholesterol. Soluble fibre may help lower total blood cholesterol levels .
Decrease Blood Sugar Levels: Barrel Cactus Fruit decrease blood sugar levels, making this fruit a helpful dietary component for many people with diabetes.
Prevents Gastric Ulcers: The Cactus fruit contains a compound known as Betanin which leads to its regulation and the reduction of pro-inflammatory chemicals. The intake of Betanin resulted in reduced stress and reduce the gastric mucosa.
Colon Cleansing: The high fibre content in cactus is not only for weight loss and lowering cholesterol levels but also helps in cleansing the colon. Cactus helps regulate the normal function of the colon.
Lower Cholesterol Levels: The Barrel cactus is high in fibre. Cactus can reduce cholesterol levels in the blood. Cactus puts you to reduce the risk of heart diseases such as stroke, coronary heart disease, and peripheral vascular disease.
Prevents Inflammation: The study subsequently showed an increase in dermal carotenoids. The nutrients in the Cactus fruit improve your immune system and protect you from the side effects of chronic inflammation.