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Benefits of nopal slime for health and skin 
Beauty Tips

Benefits of nopal slime for health and skin 

By Gretel Morales - 2022-09-20T12:34:21Z
In Aztec lands, the consumption of nopal began more than 25,000 years ago and quickly became one of the most important foods, as they not only consumed the prickly pear and the nopal, but also used cochineal, a pest, as a dye. 

In addition to being the perfect complement to accompany tlacoyos, huaraches, and tacos de carne asada, various studies have confirmed that the nopal helps control blood sugar levels, prevent ulcers, and lower cholesterol levels, making it your best option for a green juice or a salad.  

In Mexico, we always joke about the endless uses and products created from nopal, however, the reality is that this plant continues to surprise us, as in recent years, it has been used to create films that extend the life of fruits and vegetables, organic paint, biodegradable straws, and even to purify wastewater. 

Due to its many properties and uses, it is no surprise that it is also beneficial for health and skin, so at kiwilimón we set out to research this very Mexican ingredient, you will be amazed! 

You can also read: What are the benefits of eating nopal?

What is nopal slime used for? 

According to UNAM, nopal mucilage “has shown promising results in the development of cosmetic and pharmaceutical products,” according to various research conducted by experts from this institution. 

On one hand, Mexican scientists are working on innovative products such as moisturizers for the skin and a product to regenerate gastric mucosa. This once again demonstrates that nopal has applications in both the beauty and health sectors.  

Nopal slime for skin 

David Quintanar Guerrero, a specialist in nanotechnology for biological systems, explained to UNAM that when combined with conventional moisturizers, nopal slime does not dry out, making it the ideal ingredient to develop 100% natural moisturizing products. In the case of sunscreens, nopal mucilage “could increase its permanence on the skin.”  

Nopal slime for health 

As you well know, the consumption of nopal is related to better gastrointestinal health, but nopal slime goes even further, as researchers from UNAM indicate that this ingredient “is linked to its protective capacity of the mucosa of the gastrointestinal tract.” 

So far, they have developed “an excipient that releases the active ingredient for 12 hours throughout the gastrointestinal tract” and emphasize that “it can be used to treat ulcerative esophagitis, colon issues, damage to the gastrointestinal mucosa, and gastric reflux.” 

You can also read: Fruits and vegetables to relieve constipation

Other benefits of nopal slime 

The State Council of Science, Technology, and Innovation of Michoacán shares valuable information about the beneficial effects of nopal on health, here are some of them: 

1. By consuming nopal, “glucose decreases in synergy with insulin.” 

2. Nopal is very high in fiber, making it ideal if you suffer from constipation.  

3. “Reduces the risk of gastrointestinal problems and helps in treatments against obesity.” 

4. “Causes a feeling of satiety.” 

5. “Decreases cholesterol in the blood by interfering with the absorption of fats by the intestines.” 

6. “Fiber and mucilage (“slime”) control the excessive production of gastric acids and protect the gastrointestinal mucosa.” 

7. “Amino acids, fiber, and niacin prevent excess blood sugar from turning into fat; on the other hand, they metabolize fat and fatty acids, thus reducing cholesterol levels.” 

You can also read: Discover the uses of moringa

Nopal slime mask 

Now that you know the many benefits of nopal slime, and nopal, you surely don't want to miss the opportunity to try this nopal slime mask, a 100% natural option to deeply hydrate your skin.  

Ingredients: 
  • 1 large nopal, whole 
  • 2 tablespoons of aloe vera 
  • 1 tablespoon of oatmeal 
  • 1 teaspoon of honey 
  • ½ carrot 
Instructions: 
1. Blend all the ingredients until you get a homogeneous mixture. 

2. Apply the mask to the face and neck. 

3. Let it sit for about 20 minutes.  

4. Rinse with plenty of water.  

5. Dry with a clean towel and apply moisturizer.