An Overview of the Medicinal Uses of Cactus Products.

NAZARENO M.A.

Bloemfontein

Workshop; International Workshop on Cactus Pear; 2015

University of Free State- FAO-ICARDA

Cacti have been used by ancient civilizations for centuries to cure diseases and to heal wounds. Cactus cladodes, fruits, and flowers have been traditionally used in folk medicines in several countries. Cladodes are still used for gastric ulcer treatment and for its healing activity as therapeutic agents. The properties of the infusions of cactus dried flowers to prevent prostate cancer and urological problems are also well-known. Recent scientific investigations confirmed that cactus products may be efficiently used as a source of phytochemicals, such as mucilage, fibres, pigments and antioxidants. This article presents an overview of the latest scientific reports about the medicinal properties of cactus products. Scientific studies in experimental models confirmed that lyophilized cladodes have significant anti-ulcer effect, protective effect against gastric lesions as well as anti-inflammatory activity. Diet supplementation with cactus pear fruits in healthy human has shown to decrease the oxidative stress, and, therefore, improves their overall antioxidant status. Cactus pear fruits have also been studied as ovarian-cancer preventive. Their ability in suppressing carcinogenesis of in vitro and in vivo models has been assessed. The antiviral action of cactus cladode extracts have been successfully conducted against viruses such as herpes, HIV-1 virus and influenza A. Opuntia ficus-indica cladodes were supplied to hypercholesterolemic rats and a marked decrease in cholesterol and triglycerides levels was found in plasma samples. Experiments concerning the hypoglycemic effects of Opuntia streptacantha cladodes have been confirmed in diabetes mellitus non-insulin-dependent patients. Moreover, consumption of cactus young cladodes has shown to reduce obesity and blood glucose. Functional properties of cactus products can be exploited more efficiently in the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries if research is encouraged.