Evaluation of cactus (Opuntia ficus-indica) nutritional value and in vitro anthelmintic activity

Abstract

The present study aimed to evaluate the nutritional composition and in vitro anthelmintic activity of Opuntia ficus-indica (spineless cactus) cladodes across 13 different germplasms. Nutritional profiling included analysis of crude protein, crude fiber, dry matter, moisture content, total minerals, ascorbic acid, total polyphenols, and antioxidant activity. Among the evaluated germplasms, accession No. 1280 exhibited the highest crude protein content, while Palma grande cladodes showed the greatest crude fiber and dry matter levels. Accessions such as No. 1308 demonstrated superior antioxidant potential, ascorbic acid, and polyphenol content. Phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, and terpenoids. The ethanolic extracts of accession No. 1308 and Orelha de elefante mexicana were tested for in vitro anthelmintic activity against Pheretima posthuma. Results revealed a dose-dependent response, with significant reduction in paralysis and death time of the worms, comparable to the standard drug albendazole at higher extract concentrations. These findings suggest that Opuntia ficus-indica cladodes offer considerable nutritional benefits and possess promising anthelmintic properties, supporting their potential use as a functional food and natural therapeutic agent.