Sustainable Valorization of Amazonian Byrsonima crassifolia (Murici): Phytochemical Profile and Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activities for Cosmetic Applications

Considering the rich biodiversity of plant species in the Amazon region and the importance of investigating their medicinal properties as a means of valuing and preserving this biome, this study aimed to evaluate the phytochemical profile, cytotoxicity, and anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities of the hydroalcoholic extract of Byrsonima crassifolia leaves (HEBC). Phytochemical analysis revealed high concentrations of phenols, with emphasis on condensed tannins. In addition, the presence of catechin, a precursor of condensed tannins, was analyzed and characterized by HPLC. The cytotoxic evaluation demonstrated the absence of cytotoxicity of HEBC at concentrations of 100, 200 and 400 µg/mL at all times analyzed. Finally, HEBC exhibited strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, likely associated with the presence of catechin. Therefore, with the aim of enhancing the value of Byrsonima crassifolia and promoting its sustainable use, HEBC emerges as a promising candidate for the development of a novel phytotherapeutic agent. In future studies, HEBC is intended to be incorporated into specific formulations and subjected to further analyses to confirm its therapeutic efficacy and safety.