Science confirms what natural medicine already suspected: the RED FIG® has real and measurable antioxidant power.
A study conducted by universities in China and Japan revealed that the aqueous ethanolic extract of the stem of Opuntia dillenii (TINTO FIG®) contains flavonoids and glycosides of a new structure , with a potent ability to eliminate free radicals in in vitro tests .
What was discovered?
From 12 kg of fresh stems, an active fraction was extracted using 80% ethanol in water . The following were isolated from it:
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3 new compounds:
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Opuntioside I : a natural glycoside derived from opuntiol
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4-ethoxyl-6-hydroxymethyl-α-pyrone : pyrone with antioxidant potential
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Kaempferol 7-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-(1→4)-β-D-glucopyranoside : a novel flavonol with a strong antioxidant effect
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14 known compounds, including:
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Quercetin, rutin, isorhamnetin, ferulic acid, gallic acid, catechin, and vanillin
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Proven antioxidant effect
The extract and isolated compounds were evaluated for their ability to neutralize:
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DPPH radicals (stability against oxidation)
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Superoxide anions (·O2⁻)
Main results:
| Compound | SC50 (DPPH) | IC50 (·O2⁻) |
|---|---|---|
| Quercetin | 3.3 mM | 72 mM |
| 3-O-methyl quercetin | 6.0 mM | 11 mM |
| Kaempferol | 10 mM | 11 mM |
| Opuntioside I | 100 mM | 100 mM |
| Ethanolic extract | 48 mg/mL | — |
The lower the SC50 or IC50 value, the greater the antioxidant capacity.
It was observed that flavonoids with hydroxyl groups in the 3' and 4' positions (such as quercetin) have a higher antioxidant capacity than those that only have them in the 4' position (such as kaempferol).
Why does this matter?
Free radicals are unstable molecules that damage cells and accelerate aging. Their accumulation is associated with:
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Chronic oxidative stress
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Inflammation
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Type 2 diabetes
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Neurodegenerative and cardiovascular diseases
The compounds isolated from the TINTO FIG® directly neutralize these radicals and contribute to the protection of DNA and cell membranes.
What makes it special?
The study demonstrates that Opuntia dillenii :
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It contains unique flavonoid glycosides , not present in other common species
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It has powerful antioxidant effects , even superior to ferulic acid or vanillin.
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It provides a complex phytochemical structure , ideal for nutraceutical and pharmaceutical developments.
Which TUNO CANARIAS products take advantage of this potential?
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Digestive Creamer
Prebiotic fiber + RED FIG® with antioxidant and digestive action -
BOOST with RED FIG®
Natural energy with turmeric, ginger and FIGO TINTO®, ideal for combating oxidative stress -
Pure powder of organic RED FIG®
100% functional concentrate, for capsules, drinks or personalized antioxidant formulas
Conclusion
This study confirms that Opuntia dillenii (TINTO FIG®) is a novel source of flavonoids with real antioxidant capacity , capable of competing with compounds such as quercetin or gallic acid. Its action has not only been demonstrated in the laboratory, but also opens the door to natural, sustainable, and functional therapeutic formulas.
The TINTO FIG® is not a fad. It's living biochemistry at the service of your health.
Study cited
Qiu et al. (2002)
Constituents with Radical Scavenging Effect from Opuntia dillenii: Structures of New a-Pyrones and Flavonol Glycoside
Chemical and Pharmaceutical Bulletin , Vol. 50(11), 1507–1510.
