Prickly pear

Prickly pear, scientifically known as Opuntia ficus-indica, is a member of the Cactaceae cactus family. It's been used in Mexican cuisine for a long time, and it's becoming increasingly popular in the American Southwest and beyond. Prickly pear fruit is used in cocktails, juices, jams, and other dishes, and many parts of the plant are edible. In addition to its culinary uses, prickly pear has an outstanding nutritional profile and may help improve health and protect against certain diseases.

The antioxidant compounds in prickly pear are believed to defend against inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which can harm the liver. Eating prickly pear cactus may protect against nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in obese rats by reducing oxidative stress, according to one research. Another rat study found that prickly pear juice helps prevent liver impairment induced by chronic alcohol intake by increasing antioxidant status and decreasing oxidative damage caused by alcohol. In humans who consume alcohol, prickly pear may have similar effects. In a study of 55 healthy people, consuming a cactus extract before drinking alcohol reduced hangover symptoms and blood signs of inflammation more than a placebo.