Meat of the poor: discover the origin of the name of ora-pro-nóbis

2024-01-13 05:00:26

ora-pro-nóbis is increasingly popular. The plant, very common in the Center-South region of Brazil, is widely used for its nutritional qualities, but draws attention for another factor: its strange name.

The name ora-pro-nóbis comes from a Latin expression that means “pray for us”. The words have a religious origin and are traditionally used in prayers in the Christian religion. The plant was named this way because it grows around churches, forming a kind of hedge.

Scientifically, ora-pro-nóbis is known as Pereskia aculeata Miller. According to nutritionist Thalita Cáceres, from the Hospital da Obesidade, in Salvador, the plant was initially cultivated in South Africa and Cape Verde.

“However, there is no specific indication of when the cultivation occurred. It is known that it has adapted well in the Americas, especially in the Caribbean, and has become common in regions such as the Northeast and Southeast of Brazil, being cultivated in several areas due to its high nutritional value”, highlights Thalita.

The nutritionist adds that ora-pro-nóbis belongs to the cactus family, despite growing like a vine. The plant can reach up to 10 meters in height with the help of stakes — without them, the plant remains dispersed on the ground, like a bush.

Meat two poor

The main nutrient in ora-pro-nóbis is protein. In its leaves, it is possible to find 2 grams of the macronutrient for every 25 g of food, which makes it very attractive for followers of a meat-free diet.

The abundance of proteins in ora-pro-nóbis gave it the reputation of “meat for the poor”, since the plant costs less than food of animal origin. Over time, it became a nutritious option for both people with meat restrictions and those with lower purchasing power.

Ora-pro-nóbis gallery (1)

Ora-pro-nóbis leaves are rich in protein and fiber and can be consumed fresh or dried Reproduction/Neapro-Rio

Ora-pro-nóbis gallery (3)

Plant grows similar to a fern, in a climbing style Reproduction/IF Campus Uruçuca (BA)

Ora-pro-nóbis gallery (6)

Adult plant has growth of clusters of thorns Reproduction/Neapro-Rio

Ora-pro-nóbis gallery (2)

Ora-pro-nóbis full of fruits Reproduction/Neapro-Rio

Ora-pro-nóbis gallery (4)

The plant’s seeds are hard and dark Reproduction/IF Campus Uruçuca (BA)

Ora-pro-nóbis gallery (5)

Flowers are abundant and have a sweet smell Reproduction/Neapro-Rio

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0 How to fit ora-pro-nóbis into your diet?

The suggestion from nutritionist Nara Oliveira, from the Tivolly clinic, in Brasília, to include ora-pro-nóbis in your diet is to use it as a seasoning or accompanied by traditional foods that make up the Brazilian dish, such as rice and beans.

It can be crushed and mixed into soup and pasta recipes, as well as included in green juices and teas. Another suggestion is to add it raw to a salad. Ora-pro-nóbis does not pose a health risk and can be consumed frequently.

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