Medicinal plants of Vila Japiim, Santo Antônio do Içá (AM): ethnobotanical insights, chemical constituents, and biological properties

The use of medicinal plants as a therapeutic aid for curing and treating illnesses dates back to prehistoric times, often intertwined with legends, magic, and rituals. In modern societies, indigenous knowledge played a pivotal role in introducing natural products, such as tobacco, to European explorers. The concept of phytotherapy emerged around 3000 BC, emphasizing the use of medicinal plants and their extracts as complementary treatments. Today, the recognition of traditional plant-based medicine is valued and endorsed by the World Health Organization. Across different cultures, medicinal plants remain a key component of natural remedies for pain relief and alternative or complementary treatments. Brazil's extraordinary biodiversity fosters academic research to elucidate the medicinal properties of its flora. However, the documentation of traditional knowledge about medicinal plants remains limited, necessitating ethnobotanical studies like the one conducted in Vila Japiim, Amazonas. This study aimed to document the medicinal plants used in the Santo Antônio do Içá region, identify the species, and explore their botanical characteristics, biological activities, and main classes of bioactive compounds based on the literature. The ethnobotanical survey revealed a vast reservoir of local knowledge regarding the applications of medicinal plants for health and well-being. However, scientific literacy on medicinal plants among residents appeared to be limited or even absent. The study identified key bioactive compounds in the most frequently cited species, such as alkaloids and flavonoids, providing a scientific foundation for future ethnobotanical research. This work contributes to both the academic field and the local community by preserving cultural heritage and reinforcing traditional identity. Additionally, the identification of bioactive compounds and their medicinal properties opens new perspectives for inclusive public health policies, encouraging the sustainable use of Amazonian biodiversity for medicinal purposes. By integrating traditional knowledge with contemporary science, this research aims to conserve biodiversity while enhancing the quality of life for local communities. Ultimately, the study plays a crucial role in compiling and formalizing indigenous knowledge about medicinal plants, making it accessible to the broader Santo Antônio do Içá community.