Can a plant extract have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antioxidant, and liver-protective effects without apparent toxicity?
The answer is yes, and it comes from a pioneering thesis defended in 1994 that has served as a reference point for the modern study of Opuntia dillenii (TINTO FIG®) in the Canary Islands and Europe. The research evaluated the aqueous extract of the fruit , analyzing everything from safety (acute toxicity) to hypoglycemic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, hepatoprotective, and intestinal regulating activity. .
What was investigated?
The extract was obtained from ripe fruit harvested in Gran Canaria, which was then subjected to freeze-drying and filtration. Its effects were subsequently evaluated using classic pharmacological assays in rats and mice.
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Acute toxicity
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Analgesic effect (hot plate test)
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Anti-inflammatory effect (carrageenan-induced edema)
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Motor coordination (Rota-Rod test)
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Intestinal transit
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Biochemical blood study
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Hypoglycemic effect
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Influence on coagulation
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Activity on tracheal smooth muscle (in vitro)
Key results
Security
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No signs of acute toxicity were observed at doses up to 1600 mg/kg.
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The only effects observed at very high doses were mild sedation and a transient reduction in spontaneous movement .
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The LD50 was not reached , indicating high safety of the extract.
Analgesic effect
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The extract showed an analgesic effect similar to that of metamizole magnesium in animal models.
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It significantly reduced thermally induced pain at doses between 100 and 400 mg/kg.
Anti-inflammatory effect
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In the carrageenan-induced edema model, the extract significantly reduced inflammation , with moderate efficacy comparable to that of conventional anti-inflammatories, with no observed side effects.
Hypoglycemic effect
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Although it was not as potent as tolbutamide (the standard drug), the extract showed a significant decrease in blood glucose , confirming its traditional use as a hypoglycemic agent.
Effect on coagulation
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It did not significantly affect clotting times , suggesting that it does not present a hemorrhagic risk when consumed as a supplement.
Liver and kidney function
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Biochemical studies did not detect significant alterations in electrolytes, liver enzymes (GOT, GPT), or in levels of protein, cholesterol, triglycerides or glucose.
Intestinal transit
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The extract decreased intestinal motility depending on the dose, which could explain its traditional use in digestive processes and intestinal regulation.
Why is this study important?
Because it is one of the first scientific works in Europe that demonstrates, with in vivo tests, the safety and therapeutic multifunctionality of HIGO TINTO® , endorsing its traditional use in the Canary Islands.
This study serves as a basis for the validation of many of TUNO CANARIAS' products and supports with science what tradition already knew: the TINTO FIG® is a natural ally for general health .
Current products based on this knowledge
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Digestive Creamer
With RED FIG extract®, it regulates digestion and intestinal transit -
BOOST with RED FIG®
Energy and metabolic support with turmeric and ginger -
Family Max
Delicious and natural, ideal for the whole family -
Organic RED FIG® Powder
To add to smoothies, capsules, or customized health formulas
Conclusion
The aqueous extract of FIGO TINTO® is safe, effective, and versatile . This Canary Islands research demonstrated this using classic and robust methods. Today, thanks to modern studies, we know even more about its properties, but this research was the first step that inspired the development of products like those from TUNO CANARIAS.
Sometimes, the best laboratory is right here in our own land.
Reference
Loro Ferrer, JF (1994)
Doctoral thesis: Pharmacological and toxicological studies of an aqueous extract of Opuntia dillenii Haw fruits.
University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Department of Clinical Sciences.
