Pharmacological potential of cactus pear (Opuntia ficus Indica): A review

Abstract

Plants with strong bioactive constituents have recently gained much interest for improving overall well being as well as for prevention and treatment of various diseases. The presence of potentially active constituents in cactus pear and their multifunctional action, make cactus pear (Opuntia ficus Indica) idealcandidate for theproduction of health-promoting foods and pharmacologicals. Despite the appreciation by its pharmacological property in different counties, cactus pear is still scarcely used in modern nutrition and medicine. However, recent studies on cactus pear revealedthat the different parts of the plant to be potential candidates for the development of healthy foods and pharmaceuticals. Hence, this review is intended to summarize recent developments of the use of cactus for diverse pharmacological importance.