Analgesic and Anti-inflammatory action of Opuntia elatior Mill fruits

BACKGROUND: Opuntia elatio Mill is a xerophytic plant with potentially active nutrients. It is traditionally appreciated for its pharmacological properties; however, the scientific information on this plant is insufficient. OBJECTIVE: The present study evaluates the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory action of prickly pear. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Writhing and tail-immersion tests were carried out to evaluate analgesic action, while the carrageenan-induced paw edema and neutrophil adhesion tests were conducted in Albino wistar rats to assess anti-inflammatory action. RESULTS: ED(50) values of the fruit juice in writhing, tail immersion, and paw edema test were 0.919, 2.77, and 9.282 ml/kg, respectively. The fruits of Opuntia produced analgesic and anti-inflammatory action in a dose-dependent manner. CONCLUSION: The results establish the folklore use of prickly pear may be due to the presence of betacyanin and/or other phenolic compounds.