Hypoglycemic activity of two polysaccharides isolated from Opuntia ficus-indica and O. streptacantha.

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus represents one of the biggest problems in public health [1]. An alternative for its control is found in medicinal plants. Various species belonging to Opuntia genera (Cactaceae) are known in Mexico as "nopal " (prickly pear). These species are characterized by their flattened, fleshy, photosynthetic stems (cladodes, popularly named "pencas"). Mexicans have used Opuntia spp as food, medicinal remedy, fodder, and living fence [2-3] for centuries. Francisco Hernandez (16th century) recommended "nopal " in the treatment of fever, kidney ailments, and as a thirst quencher [4]. Navarro [5] also mentioned these uses in the 19th century. In the De la Cruz-Badiano Codix it was recommended for burns. In the 18th century, it was mentioned for treatment of salad