Cactus is a symbol of tenacious vitality. They grow in arid desert areas and, with their unique physiological structure and indomitable spirit, have become a wonder of nature. The leaves of cactus have degenerated into thorns to reduce water evaporation, and the stems are thick and juicy, storing the water needed for life. In the eyes of humans, cactus is not only an ornamental plant but also the incarnation of tenacity and perseverance.
So can cactus be eaten? Some species of cactus can be eaten. Although the cacti we usually see are mainly used for viewing or preventing radiation, not all cacti are not suitable for eating. In fact, some cactus varieties are regarded as delicious delicacies and nutritious ingredients in places like Mexico.
Nutritional value of edible cactus
Edible cactus is rich in dietary fiber. This fiber helps promote the peristalsis of the gastrointestinal tract and effectively prevent constipation. In addition, cactus also contains rich amino acids and various trace elements, and has the effects of clearing heat and detoxifying, strengthening the stomach and tonifying the spleen. What is even more worth mentioning is that cactus also has a certain auxiliary therapeutic effect on diseases such as diabetes, bronchitis, and liver cancer. When using cactus externally, it can also have a positive effect on skin repair.
However, it should be especially noted that cactus is not entirely harmless. It contains a certain amount of slight toxicity. Therefore, when eating, it must be used in a quantitative manner under the guidance of a doctor, and avoid increasing the amount of food by yourself to prevent adverse effects on physical health. When choosing cactus as a food ingredient, it is also necessary to ensure that the selected cactus is a medicinal or edible cactus, not an ordinary ornamental variety.
Why do Mexicans love cactus?
Mexico is located in North America with a relatively high terrain. Similar to the western region of China, it is therefore called "the pearl on the plateau". Mexico has a dry climate and a lack of water in the environment. This unique geographical environment makes cactus the most common plant in this area. The drought-tolerant characteristic of cactus enables it to thrive in arid desert areas and has made an indelible contribution to the ecological environment of Mexico.
Multiple uses of cactus
In Mexico, cactus is not only used as an ornamental plant but also an indispensable part of people's lives. Because cactus is rich in nutrition, Mexicans regard it as a valuable food ingredient. They use cactus to make various delicacies, such as cactus salad, cactus juice, etc. These delicacies not only have unique flavors but also are rich in nutrition and are deeply loved by people.
In addition to being edible, cactus has many other uses in Mexico. For example, the juice of cactus can be used as a source of drinking water to alleviate the drinking water problem in arid areas. In addition, Mexicans also use cactus to make cloth and building materials, fully demonstrating the diversity and practicability of cactus.
In the minds of Mexicans, cactus is not just a plant but also a cultural symbol. There are many kinds of cacti in Mexico with different styles. Some varieties even have colorful flowers. These beautiful cacti not only decorate the land of Mexico but also enrich the spiritual world of the Mexican people. Mexicans love cactus because they can bring convenience in life and spiritual pleasure. Therefore, cactus is regarded as a national treasure and national flower by the Mexican people, symbolizing the spirit of perseverance and tenacious survival.
Festival celebrations The love of Mexicans for cactus is also reflected in various festival celebrations. Every year in the second half of the year, the Alta region of Mexico will hold a grand festival celebration for cactus. During this festival, people will make various delicacies and handicrafts from cactus for display and tasting to express their gratitude and love for cactus. These celebration activities not only attract a large number of local people to participate but also attract many foreign tourists to come and watch and experience.
As a unique plant, cactus plays an important role in the lives of Mexican people. They not only have edible value and multiple practical functions but also carry rich cultural connotations and spiritual symbols. Mexicans love cactus because they can bring convenience in life and spiritual pleasure. This love is not only reflected in daily life but also in various festival celebrations and cultural activities.
Can cactus be eaten?
Share with
Tagged in :
Leave a Reply