The prickly pear is a small fruit with microscopic seeds. The prickly pear cactus has very low watering needs and small production costs. There are no systematic prickly pear plantations in Messinia - rather the cacti are native to certain areas of the region. Its name in Greek is associated with the European explorers of the 16th century. Prickly pear cacti produce fruit in August. Prickly pear fruit are nutritious and tasty. In Messinia prickly pears are enjoyed all year round as jams and marmalades, which are also used as toppings in desserts.
Prickly pears are very nutritional fruit. They are rich in calcium, potassium, vitamins A, B6, K and C, fiber and iron. The consumption of prickly pears may increase the rate of urine production and therefore decrease fluid retention, which can lead to weight gain and hypertension. Furthermore, it is claimed that they have antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties while its extract provides antioxidant protection.