e-ISSN: 2446-4775 A Revista Fitos é um periódico científico interdisciplinar, em acesso aberto, sem custos para autores e de difusão gratuita, com periodicidade trimestral, editado pelo Centro de Inovação em Biodiversidade e Saúde (CIBS) do Instituto de Tecnologia em Fármacos (Farmanguinhos), da Fundação Oswaldo Cruz. Indexações CrossRef Google Acadêmico Microsoft Academic BVS - Biblioteca Virtual de Saúde Fiocruz OASIS / IBICT ARCA / FIOCRUZ Portal de Periódicos da Fiocruz Portal de Periódicos Capes Journals4Free Latindex Diadorim / IBICT Qualis B4 – Interdisciplinar, Medicina Veterinária e Odontologia B5 – Biotecnologia, Ciências Agrárias, Ciências Ambientais, Engenharia II e Saúde Coletiva C – Biodiversidade, Ciências Biológicas II, Ciências Biológicas III, Farmácia e Química Para submeter seu artigo, leia as instruções aos autores e cadastre-se.
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Quantification of bioactive compounds and evaluation of antioxidant capacity in lalo (Corchorus olitorius L.) cultivated in western Santa Catarina
The plant known as Lalo (Corchorus olitorius L.), also called ‘fruit jute’, ‘shrub okra’ or ‘jute mallow’, is a tropical leafy vegetable found in Africa, Asia, the Middle East and Latin America. It is used for food and therapeutic purposes and is considered an unconventional food plant (PANC) in Brazil, predominantly in the Amazon. However, there are no studies on its cultivation in Santa Catarina and its characteristics under local edaphoclimatic conditions. This study aimed to quantify the total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant potential of Lalo under the conditions of Santa Catarina. Whole plant samples were collected 180 days after sowing in Nova Erechim (SC). Results indicated that C. olitorius L. at the end of its growth cycle contained bioactive compounds, including total phenolics ranging from 7.70 to 20.89 mg GAE/g and antioxidant activity from 13.23 to 62.82 μmol TE/g. Compounds such as quercetin, epigallocatechin, p-coumaric acid, and syringic acid were identified, with variations depending on the assay conditions used. The findings highlight the importance of Lalo as a source of bioactive compounds and its potential in future food and therapeutic research and applications.
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Review of the Chemical and Biological Properties of the Genus Dalechampia sp.
The Euphorbiaceae family comprises plants possessing significant therapeutic potential, exemplified by the genera Dalechampia, Euphorbia, and Croton, recognized for their bioactive compounds and established applications in traditional medicine. Dalechampia, despite being comparatively less investigated, exhibits a remarkable phytochemical diversity, encompassing diterpenes, triterpenes, flavonoids, alkaloids, and phenolic compounds. These constituents demonstrate notable antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and neuroprotective activities. This review aims to examine the pharmacological potential of Dalechampia, highlighting both its commonalities and distinctive characteristics when compared to other genera within the family. While Euphorbia and Croton feature extensively investigated species, comprehensive studies on the species of the genus Dalechampia remain limited. Nevertheless, its isolated compounds, such as triterpenes and flavonoids, indicate promising therapeutic capabilities. Furthermore, the resin production in Dalechampia, integral to its defense mechanisms and pollinator attraction, underscores an ecological role that largely awaits thorough exploration. Comparisons with more extensively studied genera underscore the necessity for further pharmacological and toxicological investigations to elucidate the full spectrum of Dalechampia's potential applications. Future research endeavors should integrate chemical, biological, and ecological analyses to enhance the understanding of this genus, thereby contributing to the discovery of novel therapeutic agents and the sustainable management of its natural resources.
Evaluation of the volatile composition of purple basil (Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens) subjected to steam distillation
Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is used in cooking and industry for its essential oil (EO). The purple variety (O. basilicum var. purpurascens) stands out for the presence of anthocyanidins, compounds with recognized antioxidant activity and characteristic colors. EOs are usually obtained by distillation, a process in which a portion of the volatile compounds remains dissolved or emulsified in the distillation water, resulting in the hydrosol. Given the scarcity of studies on the volatile fraction of purple basil hydrosol, this work aimed to evaluate its chemical composition after steam distillation. The distillation did not yield the EO, only the hydrosol, with a yield of volatile compounds of 0.173 g/L. Analysis of the volatile fraction by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry identified eight compounds, with linalool predominating (62.71%). The absence of EO suggests that anatomical and structural variations among cultivars may influence its development, requiring further studies for confirmation.
Cytotoxicity assessment and molecular diversity through mass spectrometry analysis of Costus spicatus
Costus spicatus Swartz exhibits notable biological properties due to its rich content of flavonoids and saponins, suggesting promising anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive, and antimicrobial properties. This study investigated the cytotoxic effects and molecular diversity of Costus spicatus extracts. Cytotoxicity assays revealed varying sensitivities across leaf, stem, and rhizome extracts, with ethanolic extracts generally exhibiting higher potency. Tandem mass spectrometry analysis identified eleven metabolites, including polyphenols like quercetin and rutin. Higher levels of polyphenols were observed in leaf and stem extracts compared to rhizomes. Among these plant parts, the leaves emerged as the richest source of flavonoids, constituting 45.83% of the total flavonoid content. Hierarchical clustering analysis highlighted dissimilarities between extract types. Overall, Costus spicatus extracts displayed cytotoxic effects against tested cell lines, with ethanolic extracts showing greater potency. This comprehensive analysis provides valuable insights into the potential medicinal applications of Costus spicatus and its molecular composition.
Teresinha de Jesus Aguiar dos Santos Andrade
Fórmulas magistrais fitoterápicas na prática clínica do profissional Nutricionista
A fitoterapia pode ser definida como uma terapêutica caracterizada pelo uso de plantas medicinais em suas diferentes formas farmacêuticas, sem a utilização de substâncias ativas isoladas, ainda que de origem vegetal. Este estudo buscou compreender a inserção das fórmulas magistrais fitoterápicas na prática clínica de Nutricionistas, com foco na região Sul de Santa Catarina. A pesquisa, de caráter descritivo e exploratório, envolveu 36 profissionais egressos de um curso de Nutrição, utilizando um questionário digital para coletar dados sobre a prescrição de fitoterápicos. Os resultados revelaram que, embora a maioria dos Nutricionistas ainda não prescreva fitoterápicos regularmente, há um grupo significativo que o faz, principalmente de forma ocasional. As plantas mais utilizadas incluem Espinheira-santa (Maytenus ilicifolia Mart. ex Reiss., Celastraceae), Cúrcuma (Curcuma longa L., Zingiberaceae) e Mulungu (Erythrina mulungu Mart. ex Benth., Fabaceae), sendo empregadas para diversas condições, como controle de peso, melhora da digestão e redução da ansiedade. A percepção geral é de que os fitoterápicos são eficazes e bem tolerados pelos pacientes, com poucos relatos de efeitos adversos. Os achados sugerem um crescente interesse e a necessidade de aprofundamento na área para otimizar a capacitação do profissional Nutricionista e aprimorar a prática clínica.
O desafio da inovação em biodiversidade e saúde na perspectiva ecológica: o papel do Centro de Inovação em Biodiversidade e Saúde (CIBS)
Palestra proferida na abertura da Reunião de Planejamento Estratégico do CIBS para 2026, em 11 de dezembro de 2025.
Petiveria alliacea L. (Phytolaccaceae) against Acinetobacter baumannii, Burkholderia cepacia and Staphylococcus aureus
In this study, the antibacterial activity of Petiveria alliacea L. (Phytolaccaceae) leaves was evaluated, using it's hydroalcoholic extract on strains of Acinetobacter baumannii, Burkholderia cepacia and Staphylococcus aureus in an in vitro experiment. The extract produced and control antibiotics (Ampicillin, Chloramphenicol and Sulfamethazol + Trimethopim) were evaluated for Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC). The susceptibility profile of microorganisms to commercial antibacterials was established. MIC analyses demonstrated that the Petiveria alliacea extract has antimicrobial activity against the A. baumanni and B. cepacia strains evaluated, with MIC determined at 250 µg mL-1. For 56% of the S. aureus strains evaluated (9 out of 16), there was no inhibition with MIC > 250 µg mL-1, however, there was inhibition against the other strains (7 out of 16). The S. aureus 1 strain showed the best result, with a MIC of 15 µg mL-1, followed by strains 10 and 66, with a MIC of 62.5 µg mL-1 and, finally, strains 13, 15, 21 and ATCC 6538, with a MIC of 125 µg mL-1. The results of the CBM analysis demonstrate the bacteriostatic activity of the hydroalcoholic solution of Petiveria alliacea leaves, while the MIC analyses confirm its antimicrobial potential.
ANALYSIS OF TOTAL AND THERMOTOLERANT COLIFORMS IN CASSAVA GUMS MANUFACTURED IN A MUNICIPALITY IN THE INTERIOR OF ACRE
Cassava plays an important economic and social role in the state of Acre. Several of its derivatives are produced by small-scale producers and sold in commercial establishments and street markets in the state. One of the main products derived from cassava is gum, which is used in the preparation of various culinary products, the main use being in the preparation of tapioca. Due to the food applicability and importance of gum in the region's culture, the aim of this study was to microbiologically evaluate samples of gum produced and sold in a municipality in the interior of Acre. The presence of total and thermotolerant coliforms was investigated using the most probable number (MPN) technique. The results showed that of the four samples tested, two showed positive results in the presumptive and confirmatory test, indicating the need to improve hygiene practices in the manufacture and/or storage of the product.
Gallic Acid and Its Derivatives: Promising Candidates in Combating SARS-CoV-2 Viral Proteases
The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has highlighted the importance of seeking new therapeutic approaches, especially in light of the rapid spread of the virus, the limited availability of effective treatments, and the emergence of new variants. SARS-CoV-2 uses cell entry mechanisms mediated by the Spike (S) protein and, after infection, depends on the action of essential viral proteases—such as Mpro (main protease) and PLpro (papain-like protease)—for its replication. These targets have become strategic for the development of new antiviral drugs. In this context, natural products and their derivatives, such as gallic acid (GA), emerge as promising alternatives, as they are widely recognized for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties. This review article explores the replication mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 proteases and discusses the therapeutic potential of GA and its derivatives as promising candidates for viral inhibitors against SARS-CoV-2 proteases. Significant data were collected from different databases (PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, and Web of Science) using keywords such as gallic acid, SARS-CoV-2, and protease inhibitors. In silico and in vitro studies have shown that GA and its derivatives can act as potential inhibitors of the Mpro and PLpro proteases of SARS-CoV-2.
Development and Stability of a Topical Curcuma longa Emulsion for Veterinary Use in Hyperimmune Serum Horses
Horses used for hyperimmune serum production frequently develop local inflammatory reactions at injection sites. The dry extract of Curcuma longa L. (DECL) exhibits anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties; however, its topical veterinary use requires pharmaceutical standardization. In this study, a 3% DECL oil-in-water emulsion was developed and its physicochemical, microbiological, and stability characteristics were evaluated using a validated HPLC method for total curcuminoids. Diethylene glycol monoethyl ether was selected as a pre-solvent based on solvent-screening assays. DECL-loaded and blank emulsions were prepared using a mixed nonionic emulsifying system and evaluated at 0, 30, and 90 days under room (25 ± 2°C) and accelerated (45 ± 2°C) conditions. The formulations remained homogeneous, with no phase separation or precipitation, and showed pH values compatible with equine skin, with only a slight decrease over time. Total curcuminoid content remained stable under both storage conditions. The HPLC-DAD method demonstrated adequate selectivity, linearity, accuracy, and precision according to regulatory guidelines. Microbiological analyses confirmed the absence of contamination. Overall, the 3% DECL emulsion met essential pharmaceutical quality attributes and maintained stability for 90 days, supporting its potential as a standardized topical herbal medicinal product for veterinary use in horses.
Deise Cristina Drummond Xavier Paes Lopes
Antimycobacterial and antibiofilm activity of Bauhinia forficata subsp. pruinosa leaf extract
This study investigated the effect of Bauhinia forficata subsp. pruinosa leaf extract on four mycobacterial species and their biofilms, as well as its phenolic content. Phytochemical assays (total phenolic and flavonoid content, chromatographic analysis) and microbiological evaluations (minimum inhibitory concentration – MIC; minimum bactericidal concentration – MBC, time-kill curve, checkerboard assay, and antibiofilm assessment) were performed. Rutin was identified as the major compound. The extract exhibited an MIC of 0.31 mg/mL-1 for all tested strains; however, Mycobacteroides massiliense showed lower susceptibility, considering its MBC value and behavior in the time-kill curve. Additionally, the extract inhibited and eradicated biofilms of M. massiliense and Mycolicibacterium fortuitum and eradicated those of Mycobacteroides abscessus and Mycolicibacterium smegmatis when applied at the MIC value. Furthermore, the extract displayed an additive effect against M. abscessus and M. smegmatis in combination with clarithromycin and against M. massiliense when combined with imipenem. This study is the first to report the in vitro antimycobacterial and antibiofilm activity of B. forficata subsp. pruinosa leaf extract. The positive effects observed are partially attributed to the flavonol rutin. Our findings suggest its potential use as an adjuvant in the treatment of mycobacterial infections, addressing antibiotic resistance issues.
The use of Phytotherapeutic Treatment in the SUS in São Paulo, a survey with health professionals.
The specialized procedure Phytotherapeutic Treatment was included in the SUS Procedure, Medication and OPM Table Management System (SIGTAP), by SAS Ordinance No. 1,988 of December 2018. The São Paulo Municipal Health Department (SMS-SP) adopted this integrative and complementary health practice (PICS) in 2020. This study sought to evaluate the skills and experiences of health professionals, aiming to offer phytotherapeutic treatment to the population served in their units. A qualitative-quantitative study used a structured questionnaire for acquisition and subsequent analysis of data in the characteristics of interest. The study obtained ninety-eight (98) valid participations and among the findings, it showed that 78.6% of the respondents would like to serve the population with this treatment; however only 14.3% did so. The respondents indicated which diseases in which they would like to apply medicinal plants, presented indications of plant species and suggestions to improve the offer of phytotherapy in the municipality. The research concluded that there is a positive attitude among professionals towards the use of medicinal plants. To this end, it is necessary to expand their training and the presence of plant inputs as stock items in the pharmacies of health units.
RENISUS and the Biodiversity of the Recôncavo Region: A Study on Medicinal Plants with Therapeutic Potential
Studies on medicinal plants are essential for preserving and transmitting traditional knowledge, as well as offering effective therapeutic alternatives. The National List of Medicinal Plants of Interest to the Brazilian Unified Health System (RENISUS), created in 2009, includes 98 species with therapeutic potential, prioritizing native plants and guiding research aimed at the development of herbal medicines. This study carried out a survey of medicinal plant species from the Recôncavo region of Bahia that are listed in RENISUS, seeking to understand their use and relevance to local health. Information was obtained from the platforms SpeciesLink, Plants of the World Online, Reflora, and the International Plant Names Index (IPNI), which compile records from botanical collections. Of the 98 species listed, 40 were confirmed in the region, representing about 41% of the national list. This result highlights the importance of the Recôncavo for the valorization and conservation of plant genetic resources. The study emphasizes the potential of local biodiversity for public health and identifies challenges such as underreporting of species and taxonomic gaps. The integration of scientific knowledge and traditional wisdom is fundamental for the conservation and sustainable use of these plants, strengthening regional development and collective health.
History, organizational evolution and perspectives of RedesFito: strengthening Local Ecoproductive Arrangements for Medicinal Plants and Phytoproducts
The National System of RedesFito (Networks of Innovation in Biodiversity-Based Medicines) represents a unique Brazilian experience integrating public health, biodiversity, innovation, and territorial development. Established within the framework of the National Policy on Medicinal Plants and Herbal Medicines, the system emerged as an institutional response to the need for articulating traditional knowledge, scientific research, public policies, and local productive chains focused on the sustainable use of sociobiodiversity. This article analyzes the historical trajectory, organizational evolution, and current model of RedesFito through a qualitative historical-analytical and documentary review. The results highlight the transition from an initially centralized structure to a decentralized and territorialized network organized around Local Management Hubs and Ecoproductive Local Arrangements. These arrangements function as sociotechnical innovation platforms, integrating agroecology, environmental justice, solidarity economy, and the valorization of traditional knowledge. The RedesFito experience demonstrates significant potential to strengthen Brazil’s Unified Health System, enhance health sovereignty, and promote alternative development pathways grounded in territorial diversity. Nevertheless, challenges remain regarding long-term financing, regulatory alignment, and the consolidation of polycentric governance mechanisms. The article concludes that RedesFito constitutes an innovative paradigm of biodiversity-based health innovation, offering relevant contributions to public health policy and sustainable development debates in Brazil and beyond.
Exploring the Functional Properties of Pumpkin Seed Oil (Cucurbita maxima) for moisturizer formulation.
Considering the current needs of the National Cosmetics Industry for products that serve women with dry skin and the global mobilization to promote care for the Environment through the reuse of waste, this article aims to reuse Pumpkin seeds (Curcubita maxima), study its physical-chemical and microbiological characteristics to develop a dermocosmetic product. To this end, the methodology proceeds with oil extraction using the soxhlet method, followed by physical-chemical and microbiological analyses, proceeding to formulate a body moisturizer with components that help in recovering the characteristics of healthy skin, carrying out new physical analyzes -chemical and microbiological tests to ensure product quality. In this way, it is observed that all the results obtained were shown to be in compliance when compared to the parameters of inspection bodies, such as ANVISA, which allows us to conclude that there is the possibility of reusing easily accessible waste that would be discarded in nature (the Seeds of Pumpkin). Proving the potential for reuse through its return in the production chain.
Farmácias Vivas (Living Pharmacies) and the valorization of Brazilian sociobiodiversity: challenges and potential for their consolidation in the SUS
The article aims to analyze the Farmácias Vivas as an instrument of the National Policy on Medicinal Plants and Herbal Medicines in Brazil. They represent innovative forms of organization and articulation between actors with different types of knowledge and capacities, as well as mechanisms to promote the value of Brazilian sociobiodiversity through the production and dispensing of medicinal plants and herbal medicines to the Unified Health System. A qualitative study was conducted using secondary sources of information to develop five categories: total number of initiatives, types of Farmácias Vivas, stages of implementation or operation, profile of the actors involved, and registration and authorization of operation. The results reveal two key elements in the context of the national policy: diversity of actor profiles across biomes, which supports adaptation to changes in the institutional environment but also requires the development of strategies that account for local specificities; and weak registration and regulatory framework of these initiatives within the Ministry of Health, compromising their oversight and monitoring. Thus, a scenario emerges that is marked by a wide diversity of initiatives with potential to contribute to Primary Health Care, while also revealing the persistence of fragile institutional foundations that limit their implementation and consolidation.
Potential of Erigeron bonariensis L. essential oil and its polyacetylene 2-cis-lachnophyllum acid methyl ester as neutralizers of bothropic venoms in vitro
Snake envenoming causes human organic multisystem failures and local effects (LEs: hemorrhage, edema and necrose). The antivenom serum is not always effective, generating in extreme cases anaphylaxis and being useless against LEs. An alternative under research is the treatment with alexiteric medicinal plants containing metabolites able to interact and inactivate/neutralize the venom 's components. As, in this context, Erigeron bonariensis L. is a promising species, we aimed to study the alexiteric potential of its essential oil from Uruguay. As assessed by GC/MS, the main components were: 2-cis-lachnophyllum acid methyl ester (cis-LAME,32.8%), 4R-(+)-limonene (22.6%), germacrene D (8.1%), trans-β-ocimene (6.9%) and 1S-(-)-β-pinene (4.8%). cis-LAME was isolated (column chromatography) and identified by spectroscopic methods. The oil and cis-LAME were incubated with Bothrops diporus and B. alternatus venoms, indicating alexiteric potential based on a screening performed by 1D-SDS-PAGE. For B. diporus venom (which causes more envenoming cases in Argentina) were conducted other in vitro tests (inhibition of proteolysis, hemolysis and procoagulant activity). The samples inhibited proteolysis and hemolysis (26.3% and 57.9% for the oil and cis-LAME, respectively), whereas only cis-LAME inhibited procoagulant activity (60.6%). The results obtained confirmed the potential of E. bonariensis to neutralize bothropic venoms, highlighting cis-LAME as a key bioactive component.
Eficácia da Cordia salicifolia Cham (Boraginaceae) contra o biofilme de Enterococcus faecium
Enterococcus faecium apresenta resistência às principais classes de antimicrobianos, sendo essencial a descoberta de novas opções terapêuticas. Um dos mecanismos que promove resistência à ação de antimicrobianos é o biofilme. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a eficácia da Cordia salicifolia Cham (Boraginaceae), uma planta medicinal popular no Brasil, sobre o biofilme de E. faecium. Foram avaliados isolados de E. faecium (n=12) obtidos de pacientes hospitalizados. O perfil de sensibilidade a antimicrobianos foi determinado. A atividade antibacteriana dos extratos aquoso e etanólico, obtidos das folhas e talos da planta, foi avaliada pela determinação da concentração inibitória mínima e a atividade sobre o biofilme foi avaliada pelo método de quantificação de biomassa por cristal violeta, após 24 horas de incubação na presença dos extratos. A maioria dos isolados foi classificada como forte produtora de biofilme (83,3%) e apresentou resistência à vancomicina (91,6%), ampicilina (91,6%), gentamicina (83,3%) e estreptomicina (50%). Não foi observada inibição do crescimento ou do biofilme pelos extratos de C. salicifolia, apesar do uso de concentração igual a dose tóxica para macrófagos. Concluindo, os extratos, aquoso e etanólico de C. salicifolia não apresentam atividade antibacteriana e nem anti-biofilme sobre isolados clínicos de E. faecium.
Compostos bioativos presentes em frutos da Amazônia
A região amazônica é rica em árvores frutíferas e muitos de seus frutos são utilizados como matéria-prima para produção de produtos alimentícios e com finalidades medicinais. Devido a sua grande aplicabilidade, os frutos amazônicos são usados como fonte de renda pela população, além disso eles são ricos em compostos bioativos que trazem inúmeros benefícios para a saúde. Dessa forma, esse artigo tem por objetivo contribuir com a divulgação de espécies vegetais amazônicas, trazendo uma revisão integrativa sobre a composição química e principais atividades biológicas de frutos nativos conhecidos por sua aceitação no mercado e/ou pela cultura local. Para o desenvolvimento deste trabalho, foram consultadas as bases de dados ScienceDirect, Periódicos CAPES e PubMed, utilizando descritores nas línguas portuguesa e inglesa. Os resultados obtidos evidenciam o potencial desses frutos como fontes naturais de substâncias bioativas, com destaque para atividade antioxidante.
Composição química e atividade antifúngica do óleo essencial de flores de Cantinoa carpinifolia (Lamiaceae)
Popularmente conhecida como “rosmarinho” e “mata-pasto”, a espécie Cantinoa carpinifolia (CC) é um arbusto ramificado com inflorescências grandes e flores violetas. Sabendo-se que os óleos essenciais (OEs) de espécies do gênero possuem atividades biológicas, nosso objetivo foi avaliar a composição química e a atividade antifúngica (AAF) do OE de CC contra Botrytis cinerea e Rhizoctonia solani. As plantas foram coletadas em Rio Paranaíba – MG, o OE foi obtido das flores por hidrodestilação e analisado por cromatografia gasosa, e a AAF foi avaliada por ensaio de Poison food. O rendimento do OE foi de 1,27% e foram identificados 32 componentes, sendo α-Tujona (46,05 %), Espatulenol (6,72 %), Sabineno (6,06 %), Isocariofileno (5,09 %) e α-Copaeno (4,80 %) os compostos majoritários. O OE apresentou atividade antifúngica contra B. cinerea e contra R. solani. Após 102 horas de tratamento, o OE de CC à 0,1%, inibiu em 79% o crescimento de B. cinerea, e em 67% o crescimento de R. solani. Enquanto o controle positivo causou inibições de 52% e 72%, respectivamente. Assim, o OE de CC rico em monoterpenos se mostrou eficaz contra B. cinerea, indicando que a espécie pode ser considerada na pesquisa de novos antifúngicos naturais.
Spasmolytic and antidiarrheal effects of leaves and stem bark extracts from Cenostigma pyramidale (Fabaceae)
Cenostigma pyramidale (“catingueira” or ‘‘pau-de-rato’’) is widely used in Brazilian folk medicine to treat various illnesses, including diarrhea. This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro spasmolytic and in vivo antidiarrheal activities of the leaf and stem bark extracts of Cenostigma pyramidale and correlate them with traditional medicine. In the isolated guinea pig ileum, the trichloromethane fraction from the stem bark extract showed concentration-dependent spasmolytic activity in preparations pre-contracted with KCl 40 mM [logCE50 = 1,690 ± 0,09625 µg/mL]. In mice, stem bark extract at doses of 250 or 500 mg/kg reduced total stool mass, while leaf and stem bark extracts reduced intestinal transit at 250, 500, or 750 mg/kg, and 750 mg/kg of leaf extract reduced intestinal fluid accumulation. In conclusion, the antidiarrheal effect of Cenostigma pyramidale may be related to the inhibition of smooth muscle contraction, probably due to the presence of tannins and flavonoids in the extracts.
Luiz Antonio Miranda de Souza Duarte Filho
Guidelines for Ethical Access to Traditional Knowledge: A Case Report from the Lagoa Quieta Village, Tenterhar-Guajajara Community, Amarante do Maranhão, Brazil
This article explores the challenges and opportunities involved in accessing traditional knowledge within Indigenous communities, particularly the Tenterhar-Guajajara Indigenous community located in Amarante do Maranhão, Brazil. The entire bureaucratic process required to obtain the necessary authorizations for the research aimed at documenting the community’s use of medicinal plants, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic is described in detail, including submissions to Plataforma Brasil, SISBIO, SisGen, and FUNAI. Although documenting traditional knowledge is essential for scientific advancement and the valorization of Indigenous wisdom, the process is often hindered by the complexity and slowness of ethical and legal approvals, which can compromise the responsiveness of urgent research. Nevertheless, these procedures ensure that the study is conducted ethically and respectfully.Based on field experience and an analysis of the regulatory processes, the article proposes a flowchart to guide future researchers conducting ethno-oriented studies. The final reflections emphasize the importance of integrating this knowledge into public health and sustainability policies, reinforcing the role of Indigenous communities in biodiversity preservation.
Shelf life and composition determination of hydrolates: experimental evidence in aromatic species
This study evaluated the microbiological stability of eleven hydrosols obtained from different aromatic species, with monthly monitoring of microbial load according to RDC 752/2022. Nine hydrosols were compliant at the initial evaluation, while two showed contaminations by E. coli. Shelf life varied substantially, ranging from 2 to 13 months, demonstrating that hydrosol stability is not uniform across species. Melaleuca alternifolia and Baccharis dracunculifolia exhibited the longest stability (13 months), whereas Aniba rosaeodora and Cordia verbenacea were the least stable. The most stable hydrosol (M. alternifolia) underwent chemical characterization, revealing a predominance of oxygenated monoterpenes and oxidative derivatives, with an oxidizable organic matter content of 0.07% (m/v). The results highlight the influence of chemical composition on microbiological stability and point to common shortcomings in production practices. The study contributes to the standardization of quality parameters and the development of specific analytical methods for hydrosols in Brazil.
Rommel Alexandre Sauerbronn da Sauerbonn
Quality Control and Regulation of Medicinal Cannabis Products in Brazil
Cannabis sativa is a complex plant native to Asia, rich in bioactive compounds called cannabinoids, and has significant medicinal interest. In Brazil, ANVISA regulates the importation of Cannabis extracts for therapeutic use and their artisanal production. Currently, nine C. sativa extracts and 14 cannabidiol-based products are available with a type B prescription, following RDC 327/2019, ensuring safety, efficacy, and quality. Products must meet strict quality standards, including good manufacturing practices, cannabinoid purity and potency, absence of contaminants and pesticides, and microbiological testing. Quality control from raw material to post-marketing monitoring ensures complete traceability. Gas chromatography is used for solvent residue analysis, while cannabinoid content is assessed through liquid chromatography. Inorganic analyses employ atomic absorption spectrometry with a graphite furnace and hydride generation. This article presents the current state of quality control testing for Cannabis-based products according to existing regulations.
Bárbara da Conceição Coelho Cotta Cardoso
Response of Solidago chilensis Meyen (Brazilian Arnica) to Different Water Regimes: Productive and Phytochemical Aspects
Water availability is a key environmental factor influencing the cultivation of medicinal plants, as it affects both biomass yield and the biosynthesis of bioactive compounds, thereby modulating their pharmacological properties. Solidago chilensis Meyen (Brazilian arnica) was subjected to an agronomic trial aimed at assessing fresh and dry biomass production, flavonoid content, and foam index (as an indirect measure of saponin concentration) under distinct irrigation regimes. The experiment followed a completely randomized design (CRD), with treatments combining irrigation frequencies (daily, every 3.5 days, and every 7 days) and volumes (12%, 6%, and 3% of the soil’s water retention capacity). While no qualitative changes in phytochemical composition were observed, water availability significantly influenced productivity and secondary metabolite accumulation. Flavonoid levels were highest under frequent irrigation, whereas the foam index increased under less frequent watering, suggesting that water stress may enhance saponin biosynthesis. Overall, irrigation volume had a comparatively minor effect on the parameters assessed, with irrigation frequency being the primary driver of biomass production and phytochemical modulation. These findings indicate that frequent irrigation promotes biomass accumulation and flavonoid synthesis, whereas reduced irrigation frequency may trigger adaptive responses leading to increased saponin content in S. chilensis.
Chemical composition and in vitro antifungal activity of essential oils from Lippia alba and Lippia turbinata
Fungal diseases are one of the most critical causes of postharvest losses in agricultural production, demanding safer and more sustainable control strategies. This study evaluated the chemical composition and in vitro antifungal activity of essential oils (EOs) from Lippia alba and Lippia turbinata against Botrytis cinerea, Monilinia fructicola, Rhizopus stolonifer, Colletotrichum nymphaeae, Fusarium hainanense, and Penicillium digitatum. The volatile method was applied using a concentration of 1000 ppm, with carbendazim as the chemical control. The EO of L. alba completely inhibited the growth of all fungi except P. digitatum (47.6 ± 1.4 %), while L. turbinata showed 100% inhibition for all tested species, without significant differences compared to the fungicide (p>0.05). Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis revealed β-linalool (26.72%) and trans-dihydrocarvone (16.29 %) as major components in L. alba, and (−)-carvone (58.23 %) and D-limonene (27.72 %) in L. turbinata. The strong inhibitory activity and distinct chemical profiles suggest the potential of both species as sources of natural biofungicides for postharvest disease management.