Perspectivas para utilização de Dipteryx alata Vogel (Fabaceae) na saúde humana

Abstract

Dipteryx alata Vogel is a species valued for containing medicinal and nutritional properties. Almonds are a significant source of lipids, proteins, minerals and dietary fibers, and are recommended in human and animal nutrition. The leaves and bark taken from D. alata are used, in popular culture, as infusions to treat rheumatisms, menstrual cramps, diarrhea, reduced cholesterol rates and bites from some snakes. D. alata seed oil has high levels of tocopherol and unsaturated fatty acids, providing a relevant antioxidant and antiproliferative role for human health. It also has phytotherapic relevance as a leishmanicidal agent with a reduction of up to 95% in the parasitic load of Leishmania amazonensis. The high degree of unsaturation present in the oil makes it suitable for edible purposes or as a raw material for the oleochemical and pharmaceutical industries. The present study aimed to investigate the therapeutic implications investigated with D. alata. Chapter 1 is a literature review; chapter 2 is a scientometrics covering publications on the aforementioned topic; chapter 3 presents a systematic review about the antioxidant properties of D. alata and chapter 4 refers to the antitumor properties of D. alata oil in a bioassay with potato discs.