Cambucá (Plinia edulis (Vell.) Sobral), a Threatened Brazilian Biocultural Heritage: a Pioneering Review

Abstract

Plinia edulis (Vell.) Sobral, commonly known as cambucá in Brazil, is a fruit-bearing species native to the Atlantic Forest, regarded as an underexplored Brazilian biocultural heritage and at risk of extinction. To compile, for the first time, scientific and technological information on P. edulis, a comprehensive survey was conducted using different scientific literature and patent databases covering its characteristics, properties, and applications. The findings confirm that research has primarily focused on the leaves, revealing the presence of bioactive compounds in their composition, such as terpenoids and a variety of phenolic compounds, as well as associated biological activities, including gastroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities. Although the fruit has been less studied, it has demonstrated a high pulp yield, serving as a source of dietary fibers and minerals. It presents a complex composition of sugars, organic acids, and volatile compounds, conferring a unique sensory profile to cambucá. This justifies the proposed uses mentioned in the patent documents found. Additionally, the pulp has been the subject of quantifying bioactive substances (carotenoids and phenolic compounds) and confirming specific biological properties, such as gastroprotective, antinociceptive, and chemopreventive activities. In contrast, information on the peel and seed fractions' nutritional, physicochemical, technological, and bioactive properties is scarce. By understanding the agrotechnological potential of P. edulis, it is possible to guide the development of new research aimed at deepening knowledge of the characteristics and properties of its various fractions, as well as creating innovative and sustainable agroproductive chains from the species, thereby ensuring its valorization and conservation.

Keywords: Myrtaceae; Atlantic Forest; Bioactivity; Brazil; Native Fruits; Underexplored Species.