Nagphani cactus revives as superfood in Himachal’s dry regions

In Himachal Pradesh’s arid foothills, the Opuntia cactus—locally known as Nagphani—is gaining popularity for its nutritional, medicinal, and economic value. Once seen as a thorny nuisance, its edible pads and sweet fruits are now used in traditional dishes, juices, and jams. Two common species, especially Opuntia ficus-indica, are driving this sustainable superfood revival.