Phytotherapeutic bioproducts from Amazonian plant species

Abstract

The plant species of the Amazon represent one of the greatest sources of chemical biodiversity on the planet, containing bioactive compounds with medicinal properties recognized by scientific literature and traditional medicine. This study aims to develop phytotherapeutic bioproducts from Amazonian species found in Roraima, selected for their therapeutic potential and consolidated use by local populations. The plants used were salva-do-campo (Lippia sidoides), preciosa (Aniba canelilla), buriti (Mauritia flexuosa), breu branco (Protium heptaphyllum), and copaíba (Copaifera spp.), whose secondary metabolites exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, moisturizing, and insecticidal activities, according to scientific evidence. The study involved the extraction of essential oils and the preparation of ethanolic extracts from the selected species. Phytochemical screening was carried out on these extracts for preliminary identification of metabolite classes. In parallel, a literature review was conducted on the chemical composition and biological activities of each species in order to support the selection of compounds of interest. Based on the biocompounds obtained, four types of bioproducts were formulated: an anti-inflammatory ointment, a moisturizing lip balm, an insecticidal incense, and an antiseptic soap. The development was grounded in literature data that confirm the pharmacological efficacy of the extracts and oils from these plants, seeking to integrate traditional knowledge with contemporary scientific approaches. In addition to valuing regional natural resources, the study contributes to innovation in plant-based products and to the preservation of Amazonian ethnobotanical knowledge.