Prickly pear has traditionally been used to promote healing -- specifically, as a treatment for inflammatory skin diseases, eye inflammation, intestinal tract inflammation, urinary tract inflammation, burns and joint or muscle inflammation. Now, science has validated these uses.

Juice:
With tongs and a bucket, gather tunas when they have turned a dark burgandy color. Cut in half (no need to remove the prickles).

Suggestion: Hold with a fork and cut in half. Place in a pan and cover with water. Bring to a boil for 30 minutes. Strain through muslin or wet guaze four times.

Jelly

Ingredients:
2 cups Prickly Pear Juice
1 cup apple juice
2-3/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup lemon juice
1/4 cup sugar mixed with package Sure-Jell Light

Directions:
Follow direction for jellies on Sure-Jell package.

Recipe makes 6 to 8 cups or 3 to 4 pints.

See also: Food Byte: Prickly Pear - Prickly Pear is a fat fighter! Read more... Or how about a Prickly Pear Candy Recipe?

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