Opuntia Stricta as a potential source of bioactive compounds: Optimization of polyphenol extraction and evaluation of antioxidant activity

Opuntia Stricta, a cactus species native to Mexico, has successfully adapted to the arid and semi-arid climates of Morocco. This study aimed to valorize the pulp of this fruit by optimizing the extraction of its bioactive compounds and evaluating its antioxidant potential. The investigation focused on optimizing the solid-liquid extraction process (maceration) by varying two critical parameters: dry matter concentration and extraction time. The results indicated that the optimal conditions were achieved using a 2% dry matter concentration with an extraction duration of 30 minutes, which maximized the overall extraction yield. Furthermore, the FRAP assay confirmed the exceptional bioactivity of this optimal extract, revealing an antioxidant capacity of 3108.2 mg AAE/g DM significantly higher than that of the standard ascorbic acid (1186.5 mg AAE/g DM). These findings demonstrate the high potency of the extracted polyphenols and position Opuntia Stricta pulp as a promising natural source of antioxidants for nutraceutical and pharmaceutical applications.