Am J Chin Med. 1989 ; 17(3-4): 221-4.

Hypoglucaemic activity of Opuntia streptacantha throughout its annual cycle.

Meckes-Lozoya M, IbÃ¡Ã±ez-Camacho R.

Biomedical Research Unit in Traditional Medicine, Mexican Institute of Social Security, Xochitepec, Morelos.

Opuntia sp. used in mexican traditional medicine diminishes blood sugar levels when orally administered. Possible seasonal variations in the hypoglycaemic property of Opuntia streptacantha Lemaire, were studied using the fresh sap of its stems collected throughout the year. The evaluation was performed in the already proven sensitive experimental model in normal rabbits. No seasonal variation in the hypoglycaemic activity of this plant product was detected suggesting it can be used year round for the treatment of Diabetes mellitus.