BRAM, France—Bio Serae announced a recent clinical study confirmed the diuretic effects of Cacti-Nea™, a natural extract of Opuntia ficus indica (prickly pear fruit). In an open intra-individual study in 15 women with water retention problems, consumption of 2 g/d for one week increased diuresis by 27 percent in women with a body mass index (BMI) of less than 25; significantly decreased the sensation of swollen feet, ankles and calves and the sensation of “heavy legs." In addition, 87 percent of participants said they were convinced of Cacti-Nea’s efficacy by the end of the study in a global satisfaction questionnaire.
The findings are similar to those reported previously. In one in vivo study, Cacti-Nea doubled the urine volume and reduced body weight gain of rats by 20 percent compared to control. And in a clinical study in 49 women with normal BMI, a daily dose of 2 g/d of Cacti-Nea over four weeks assisted in weight loss.
