Barbatimão (Stryphnodendron spp.) Alcoholic Extract: A Comprehensive Scientific Review of Traditional Preparation and Wound Healing Properties

Background: Stryphnodendron species, popularly known as “barbatimão” in Brazil, represent one of the most extensively utilized medicinal plants for wound healing in traditional medicine. The alcoholic maceration of barbatimão bark constitutes a centuries-old preparation method that concentrates bioactive tannins and polyphenolic compounds with remarkable cicatrizing properties. Objective: This comprehensive review evaluates the scientific foundation underlying the traditional preparation of barbatimão alcoholic extracts, detailing their chemical composition, mechanisms of wound-healing action, clinical efficacy, and safety profile. Methods: A systematic literature review of ethnopharmacological reports, phytochemical analyses, and experimental and clinical studies (1990–2026) was conducted using databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, SciELO, and Google Scholar. Search terms: “Stryphnodendron adstringens,” “barbatimão,” “tannins,” “wound healing,” “collagen,” “antioxidant,” and “anti-inflammatory.” Results: Barbatimão bark contains extraordinarily high concentrations of condensed tannins (40–80% dry weight), predominantly proanthocyanidins composed of gallocatechin and epigallocatechin-3-O-gallate (EGCG) monomers. The alcoholic maceration process efficiently extracts these polyphenolic compounds, yielding a concentrated therapeutic preparation. Scientific evidence demonstrates that barbatimão extracts accelerate wound healing through multiple synergistic mechanisms: Astringent action: Formation of protective protein precipitate layers over wounds, reducing exudation and microbial penetration. Anti-inflammatory effects: Downregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6). Cellular regeneration: Stimulation of keratinocyte proliferation and migration, promoting rapid re-epithelialization. Collagen synthesis: Enhanced fibroblast activity and accelerated transition from type III to mature type I collagen. Antimicrobial activity: Inhibition of common wound pathogens, including Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Antioxidant protection: Reduction of oxidative stress and DNA damage in regenerating tissues. Experimental and clinical studies report wound contraction rates of 60–80% within 3–7 days, significantly enhanced epithelialization, and superior healing outcomes compared to conventional treatments such as povidone-iodine or silver sulfadiazine. The traditional alcoholic maceration method (bark:alcohol ratio 1:4 to 1:10, for 4–6 weeks) yields extracts with optimal bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy. Conclusions: The Stryphnodendron alcoholic extract represents one of the most effective evidence-based phytotherapeutic agents for wound healing. By combining astringent, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and regenerative mechanisms, barbatimão demonstrates broad therapeutic potential. Its traditional preparation through alcoholic maceration aligns with scientifically validated methods for maximizing active compound extraction. The integration of barbatimão alcoholic extract into modern wound care protocols is supported as a safe, cost-effective, and mechanistically rational treatment option.