Nopal Cactus (Prickly Pear) Contains Proline
(*) See References and Disclaimer at the bottom of the page.
Nopal cactus (prickly pear) contains proline and is not technically an amino acid. It is not considered essential as the body can manufacture it, however, those on a vegetarian or vegan diet may require proline supplementation(1*).
Proline's main "claim to fame" is that it is required to produce collagen(2*). Collagen is the substance that we associate with a youthful and vibrant complexion(3*). As we age, our skin loses collagen and thus begins to droop, sag and wrinkle(4*). Collagen is also used inside the body for a much less superficial purpose: it lines all of our arteries(5*). Proline is also important in the repair and maintenance of cartilage as well as bone tissue and, for this reason, may be helpful in the management of osteoarthritis, back pain and soft tissue strains(6*).
Sources of Proline
Meat and Nopal Cactus (Prickly Pear) from Natural Home Cures Freeze Dried Nopal Powder Capsules (Prickly Pear).
Source References
(1) Wikipedia: Proline
(2) WebMD: Proline
(3) Dummies Books: How Glutamic Acid and Proline Figure Into Your Good Health
(4) Britannica: Proline
(5) Wise Geek: Proline Amino Acid Benefits
(6) The Biology Project: Proline