Identification of nutritional components and small organic molecules in nopalitos cacti, a homeopathic remedy for type II diabetes

CHED 1301

Julian M. Davis, judavis@uiwtx.edu1, Jose Guevara, judavis@uiwtx.edu2, Lori Lazaro2, Mark Olivares, punch682@aol.com2, and David Olivares2. (1) Department of Chemistry, University of the Incarnate Word, 4301 Broadway CPO311, San Antonio, TX 78209, (2) Department of Chemistry c/o Dr. Davis, University of the Incarnate Word, 4301 Broadway, Campus PO Box 311, San Antonio, TX 78209
In the United States, it is estimated that over 20 million adults suffer from diabetes, and it has been the sixth leading cause of death nationally from 2002 through 2004. The nopalitos cactus is widely used in Mexico as home remedy for the treatment of type II diabetes. Recent research has shown incorporating leaves of this cactus into the diet of type II diabetics helps regulate blood sugar levels and thereby alleviate symptoms, though little is known about the mechanism. In order to help address this question we are examining components of the cactus (Opunitia engelmannii). The consumption of magnesium and calcium helps diabetics retain less glucose in their cells. Levels of these elements in cactus leaves are measured using atomic absorption spectroscopy. In addition, we are using soxhlet extractors to draw out small organic molecules which we are then working to identify using GC-MS.
 

Undergraduate Research Poster Session: Medicinal Chemistry
2:00 PM-4:00 PM, Monday, April 7, 2008 Morial Convention Center -- Hall A, Poster

Division of Chemical Education

The 235th ACS National Meeting, New Orleans, LA, April 6-10, 2008