INCI: OPUNTIA FICUS-INDICA FLOWER EXTRACT

The prickly pear (Opuntia ficus-indica) belongs belongs to the cactus family (Cactaceae) and grows like a shrub to a tree. In the spring months, large, bright, sunny yellow flowers form on the edges of the thorny, flat shoots. After flowering, the edible fruits of the prickly pear cactus (“prickly pears”) grow. The desert dweller has its origins in Mexico and in the warm and dry areas of North America, where it can reach heights of up to six meters. The cactus species is now also grown in areas around the Mediterranean and in Africa. The extract comes from the flowers of the prickly pear cactus.

Effects

The flowers of the prickly pear cactus are rich in flavonoids and are a source of natural antioxidants. The flower extract strengthens the skin cells and protects the skin from harmful environmental influences. It also supports the repair of damaged skin cells, which is why we also use it in our wound balm.

Studies

Ammar, I., Bardaa, S., Mzid, M., Sahnoun, Z., Rebaii, T., Attia, H. & Ennouri, M. (2015). Antioxidant, antibacterial and in vivo dermal wound healing effects of Opuntia flower extracts. International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 81, 483–490.

Khémiri, I., Essghaier Hédi, B., Sadfi Zouaoui, N., ben Gdara, N. & Bitri, L. (2019). The Antimicrobial and Wound Healing Potential ofOpuntia ficus indica L. inermisExtracted Oil from Tunisia. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2019, 1–10.

Park, E. H. & Chun, M. J. (2001). Wound healing activity of Opuntia ficus-indica. Fitoterapia, 72(2), 165–167.