Antioxidant Potential of Opuntia dillenii: A Systematic Review of Influencing Factors and Biological Efficacy

Opuntia dillenii has gained considerable scientific attention as a potential natural source of antioxidants. This systematic review compiles and evaluates current evidence regarding its antioxidant activity. A PRISMA-guided literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, identifying 37 eligible studies. These studies employed two main methodological approaches: chemical-based assays and biological models. Chemical assays, including radical scavenging and reducing power assays, demonstrated a broad range of antioxidant activity influenced by factors such as the extraction method, plant part, plant maturity, and geographic origin. Polysaccharides, betalains, and polyphenols were consistently identified as primary contributors to these effects. Biological models further supported the antioxidant properties of O. dillenii extracts. In animal studies, administration of the extracts significantly improved oxidative stress biomarkers, increasing glutathione levels, reducing malondialdehyde concentrations, and enhancing the activity of antioxidant enzymes, particularly in the liver and other digestive tissues like the colon, stomach, and pancreas. Cellular studies using hepatocyte, macrophage, enterocyte, and neuronal cell lines produced comparable results, confirming the antioxidant effects. In conclusion, O. dillenii exhibits promising antioxidant potential across various experimental models. However, the absence of human clinical trials highlights the need for further research to establish its efficacy and safety as a nutraceutical product.