Bioactive Compounds and Biological Activities of Sarcomphalus joazeiro (Mart.) Hauenschild

ABSTRACT Sarcomphalus joazeiro (Mart.) Hauenschild (Rhamnaceae), commonly referred to as “juá” or “joazeiro,” is a native and endemic species of the Brazilian semiarid region. This review aims to compile all information on the ethnobotanical, chemical, biological, and biotechnological aspects of the species, including data on patents. The methodology employed involved an integrative review of all published literature from 1984 to 2024. As a result, 25 articles and 18 patents were selected for this study. The species demonstrated antioxidant, antimicrobial, anxiolytic, and gastroprotective activities, among others. These bioactivities are attributed to the presence of saponins and flavonoids, main constituents of its bark and leaves, respectively. Pharmacokinetic studies suggest that nanoformulation systems can increase the solubility and absorption of these bioactive compounds. Notably, patented products derived from S. joazeiro are targeted at the food, cosmetic, and personal hygiene industries. Future research on this species is necessary to evaluate the toxicological profile, isolation of compounds, mechanisms of action, and bioavailability.