What if a desert plant could improve cardiovascular health by acting on everything from the arteries to cholesterol metabolism?
An experimental study published in the journal Yao Xue Xue Bao has demonstrated that the polysaccharide from Opuntia dillenii (FIGO TINTO®) improves arterial vasodilation, reduces cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL, and modulates liver proteins involved in lipid synthesis. Its effects are comparable to those of conventional drugs, but without observed toxicity.
What was investigated?
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A model of induced atherosclerosis was used in rats fed a diet rich in fat and calcium.
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Low (0.2 g/kg/day) and high (0.4 g/kg/day) doses of Opuntia dillenii polysaccharide (OPS) were administered intraperitoneally for 60 days.
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The following were evaluated:
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The relaxation capacity of the thoracic aorta
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Serum levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), and LDL
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Hepatic expression of the proteins ApoB and Dgat1 , involved in lipid synthesis
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Key results
Improvement of arterial vasorelaxation
Rats treated with OPS showed significantly improved vasodilation in response to carbamoylcholine (Carb), with relaxation rates as high as 0.98 ± 0.02 in the high-dose group, compared to very low values in the untreated atherosclerosis group.
Reduction of cholesterol, LDL and TG
Both doses significantly reduced plasma levels of:
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Total Cholesterol (TC)
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Triglycerides (TG)
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Low-density lipoproteins (LDL)
These lipid effects are clinically relevant for the control and prevention of cardiovascular diseases.
Modulation of hepatic proteins
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ApoB : LDL transport protein, decreased significantly.
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Dgat1 : a key enzyme in triglyceride synthesis, was also reduced.
This mechanism suggests that HIGO TINTO® acts from the liver , interfering with the formation of harmful lipids.
Why is it important?
High cholesterol and arterial stiffness are key risk factors for diseases such as heart attack, stroke, and arteriosclerosis. The polysaccharide in FIGO TINTO® acts on:
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The arteries → regaining flexibility
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The blood → improving the lipid profile
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The liver → modulating the synthesis of fats and lipoproteins
And all this without causing hypoglycemia, toxicity, or documented adverse effects.
Practical application today
These types of polysaccharide-rich extracts are present in several Tuno Canarias products, designed to support cardiovascular and metabolic health naturally:
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BOOST with FIG RED® : for cellular energy, oxidative control and active metabolism
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Digestive Creamer : formula with fiber and FIGO RED® that helps the gut microbiota and fat metabolism
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HIGO TINTO® Family Max : for children and adults, with pigments and polysaccharides and no added sugar
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100% RED FIG® organic powder : versatile base for capsules, shakes or formulated supplements
Conclusion
This experimental study provides clear evidence: FIGO TINTO® reduces cholesterol, protects arteries, and modulates key metabolic processes in the liver. Its safe profile and multifunctional action position it as a powerful candidate for daily cardiovascular prevention and care.
Heart health can start with a spoonful. And FIGO TINTO® is living proof of that.
Reference
Yu-chun Wang, Zhan-peng Qi, Zhen-zhong Liu, Tao Li, Hong-xia Cui, Bao-qing Wang, Na Chi.
Therapeutic effects and mechanisms of Opuntia dillenii Haw on atherosclerosis of rats .
Yao Xue Xue Bao. 2015 Apr;50(4):453–8. PMID: 26223127
