DefinePK

Abstract

The present study focuses on the extraction and analysis of mucilage from Opuntia ficus-indica (commonly known as prickly pear cactus), a xerophytic plant known for its diverse pharmacological activities. Mucilage, a polysaccharide-rich natural hydrocolloid, was isolated from the cactus pads using cold aqueous maceration followed by acetone precipitation. The aqueous extract was further subjected to gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis to identify the phytochemical constituents. The GC-MS results revealed the presence of several bioactive compounds, including fatty acids, esters, alcohols, and steroids. These phytochemicals are known to exhibit antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties. The findings validate the traditional use of Opuntia ficus-indica and suggest potential pharmaceutical applications of its mucilage in drug delivery systems, cosmeceuticals, and bioadhesive formulations