<i>Vatairea</i> Genus as a Potential Therapeutic Agent—A Comprehensive Review of Ethnobotanical, Phytochemical, and Pharmacological Properties
The <i>Vatairea</i> genus (Fabaceae family) is widespread in the Amazon rainforest. Some species of this genus are known for their ethnobotanical significance and biological potential. The present study explores the pharmacological and promising therapeutic activities, ethnobotanical pro...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
MDPI AG
2025-03-01
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| Series: | Pharmaceuticals |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8247/18/3/422 |
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| Summary: | The <i>Vatairea</i> genus (Fabaceae family) is widespread in the Amazon rainforest. Some species of this genus are known for their ethnobotanical significance and biological potential. The present study explores the pharmacological and promising therapeutic activities, ethnobotanical profile, and phytochemical prospection of <i>Vatairea</i> sp., a monophyletic group of flowering plants, which includes economically and culturally important genera due to their diverse uses, including medicinal applications. <i>V. lundellii</i>, <i>V. guianensis</i>, <i>V. erythrocarpa</i>, <i>V. fusca</i>, <i>V. heteroptera</i>, <i>V. paraensis</i>, <i>V. sericea</i>, and <i>V. macrocarpa</i> are included in the <i>Vatairea</i> sp., also recognized for its high wood quality and potential medicinal properties. Studies show significant antibacterial activity in <i>V. guianensis</i> extracts against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, whereas <i>V. macrocarpa</i> lectin exhibits broad-spectrum antibacterial effects, including modulation of antibiotic resistance. Additionally, <i>V. macrocarpa</i> and <i>V. guianensis</i> have demonstrated antifungal properties, with compounds like Vatacarpan exhibiting potent activity against <i>Candida</i> sp. In vivo studies highlight the neurotoxic effects of <i>V. macrocarpa</i> lectin, suggesting a dual role in the central nervous system. Despite these findings, research on Vatairea’s toxicological aspects is limited, with only a few studies on <i>V. macrocarpa</i> and <i>V. guianensis</i> extracts indicating a need for further exploration of this genus’ pharmacological and therapeutic potential. |
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| ISSN: | 1424-8247 |