Desert Speaks

Prickly Pear: Cactus Of Plenty

This program tackles a thorny subject. The hardy prickly pear can be f ound from Mexico into Canada. Not only is its range amazing, but so ar e its uses by people. It has been credited with lowering cholesterol, aiding digestion and helping control diabetes. Some people use its fru it (called tunas) and its pads (nopolitos) for food. It even serves as home to an insect used to make red dye that was valued as much as gol d by Spanish explorers.