Pharmacological actions of opuntia ficus indica: A review.
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Date
2012-07
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Abstract
Cactus (Opuntia ficus-indica) belongs to the family Cactaceae. Family Cactaceae is
reported to contain about 130 genera and nearly 1500 species. This plant is native of Mexico and
it is widely distributed in Mexico and in all American hemispheres as well as in Africa and in the
Mediterranean basin. It has been used in traditional folk medicine because of its role in treating a
number of diseases and conditions, including anti-inflammatory effects hypoglycemic effects
inhibition of stomach ulceration, neuroprotective effects Through antioxidant actions and also
used for treating diabetes, burns, bronchial, asthma and indigestion in many countries over the
world. It is also used in Pharma industry as a pharmaceutical agent. The fruit, as well as cactus
stem are used to prepare value-added products, such as jam, squash, wine, pickle, body lotions,
shampoo, creams, etc. It also has several medicinal and industrial uses. Its seeds can be used as
flavouring agents. Due to the remarkable biological activity of Opuntia and its constituents, it will
be appropriate to develop them as a medicine.
Description
Keywords
Opuntia ficus indica, Cactus, flavonoid, pharmacological action
Citation
Kaur Manpreet, Kaur Amandeep, Sharma Ramica. Pharmacological actions of opuntia ficus indica: A review. Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science. 2012 July; 2(7): 15-18.