( ) is a plant belonging to the Cactaceae family that is abundant in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. is consumed as a local delicacy and has no other current use. To understand the nutritional value of in human health and its application in the food, cosmetic, and drug industries, this review summarizes information on the chemical compounds (pure α-pyrone compounds, flavonoids, phenolic acids, polysaccharides, minerals, fatty acids, and betalains) and biological properties (anti-diabetic, anti-hyperglycemic, antihyperlipidemic, anti-atherosclerotic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antimicrobial, antifungal, antiviral, anti-spermatogenic, anticancer, antilarval, anti-angiogenic, and antioxidant) of extracts from each part of the plant (fruit juice, fruit peel, cladode, and seeds) (aqueous, ethanolic, and methanolic), and seed oil. In addition, data related to the recent applications of in various industries (e.g., edible coatings, food supplements, cosmetics, nanoparticles, and wastewater treatment) are provided.