Therapeutic effects of carnauba (Copernicia prunifera Miller) based bioproducts in metabolic diseases

Resumo

Background: Copernicia prunifera (carnauba), a palm species native to the Brazilian semiarid region, is recognized for its economic importance and its potential as a source of bioactive compounds. In this context, metabolic disorders, including diabetes, hyperlipidemia, oxidative stress, and inflammation, represent major public health challenges, increasing interest in the investigation of novel therapeutic alternatives derived from this species. Objective: This study aimed to systematically review the scientific evidence regarding the therapeutic effects of carnauba-derived bioproducts published between 2015 and 2024. Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted using the Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, PubMed, SciELO, and Web of Science databases. Twenty-two studies met the predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria and were included in the qualitative synthesis. Results: The findings indicate that carnauba-derived bioproducts possess significant pharmacological and technological potential, particularly in the context of metabolic disorders, while demonstrating favorable biocompatibility and safety profiles in experimental animal models. Carnauba wax emerged as a promising matrix for controlled drug delivery systems, improving the stability and bioavailability of bioactive compounds. Scientific production in this field is predominantly concentrated in Brazil, although international collaboration has increased in recent years. Conclusions: Despite these promising findings, further translational and clinical studies are required to validate the therapeutic and industrial applications of carnauba-derived bioproducts.