Ethnopharmacology, bioactivity and phytochemistry of Maxillaria densa Lindl. Scientific review and Biotrading in the neotropics

Abstract

Maxillaria densa is a native American orchid extended in high mountains and humid forests. The objective of this review is to provide a critical analysis on ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry and pharmacology of the species, focusing on its potential for biotrading. The study was conducted exploring the PubMed, Scopus, SciELO and SciFinder databases and specialized websites, looking for bioactive molecules and thus confirming what properties and compounds contain this plant. M. densa is traditionally used for the treatment of stomach pains, such as antidiarrheal and antispasmodic. The extracts obtained from M. densa show the presence of six active ingredients derived from phenanthrene, an aromatic polycyclic hydrocarbon. The biological activity studies carried out have shown spasmolytic, antinociceptive and relaxing effects. M. densa grows in coffee crops under shade, which are considered sustainable production systems, increasing the chances of green businesses for local farmers. From the mentioned findings, M. densa presents a potential as a source of bioactive molecules and as an ornamental flower, opening a new perspective in the Bioeconomy field.