Traditional Uses, Chemical Constituents, and Biological Activities ofBixa orellanaL.: A Review

Abstract

Bixa orellanaL., popularly known as “urucum,” has been used by indigenous communities in Brazil and other tropical countries for several biological applications, which indicates its potential use as an active ingredient in pharmaceutical products. The aim of this work was to report the main evidence found in the literature, concerning the ethnopharmacology, the biological activity, and the phytochemistry studies related toBixa orellanaL. Therefore, this work comprises a systematic review about the use ofBixa orellanain the American continent and analysis of the data collected. This study shows the well-characterized pharmacological actions that may be considered relevant for the future development of an innovative therapeutic agent.