Trichilia catigua: therapeutic and cosmetic values

• Published in: Revista brasileira de farmacognosia 2017-03, Vol.27 (2), p.254-271
• Main Authors: Longhini, Renata, Lonni, Audrey A.S.G., Sereia, Ana Luiza, Krzyzaniak, Letícia M., Lopes, Gisely C., Mello, João Carlos P. de
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Biological, chemical, analytical, and technological activities; Catuaba; PHARMACOLOGY & PHARMACY; Pharmacy; Review; Trichilia catigua
• ISSN: 0102-695X; 1981-528X; 1981-528X
• DOI: 10.1016/j.bjp.2016.10.005

[Display omitted] Medicinal plants play an important role in human health care. It is estimated that about 25–30% of all drugs are evaluated as therapeutic agents derived from natural products. Research in the pharmaceutical industry has demonstrated that for complex diseases, natural products still represent a valuable source for the production of new chemical compounds, since they possess privileged structures. Among Brazilian biodiversity, “catuaba” is popularly used as a tonic to treat fatigue, stress, impotence, memory deficits, and digestive disorders. Studies show antibacterial, trypanocidal, antioxidant, antiarrhythmic, antidepressant, improvement of memory, anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activities, as well as phytocosmetic activity in cellulite treatment and in anti-ageing. The Brazilian plants known and used as catuaba are represented by more than twenty different species; however, the plant most commonly found in Brazil as “catuaba” is the species Trichilia catigua A. Juss., Meliaceae. Thus, the aim of this paper is to present a review of T. catigua, with emphasis on biological activities, chemical and analytical development and formulations in order to provide a broader and deeper insight, seeking a herbal medicine and/or phytocosmetic as well as future prospects for commercial exploitation and directions for future studies.