Arrabidaea chica (Humb. and Bonpl.): A plant with multipurpose medicinal applications

Abstract

Arrabidaea chica is a bush-like plant from the Bignoniaceae family, widely spread in the tropics, mainly in South America's Amazon region. It is commonly known as crajiru, and it is popularly used in alternative medicine for its anti-inflammatory actions, anemia, and against infection and cytotoxic and leishmanicidal potential. Our objective is to review the related medical effects of Arrabidaea chica. Databases such as MEDLINE/PUBMED, EMBASE, and Scielo were consulted, and PRISMA guidelines were followed to build the review. In animals with peritonitis, it decreases the leukocyte migration, decreases the concentration of the proinflammatory cytokine, and increases Interleukin 10. It also shows hepatoprotective, anti-ulcerogenic, antifungal effects (Candida), leishmanicidal activity, anti-Helicobacter pylori anti-Enterococcus faecalis. Another action is the photoprotector activity, mainly against ultraviolet radiation, UVA, and UVB. It also presents the penetration rate similar to the traded sunscreens and the absence of renal or liver toxicity. It also shows a decrease in the reactive species of oxygen, preventing lipid peroxidation. As a result of the findings in these studies, it is possible to conclude that A. chica can be used in different pharmacological segments. However, more studies must be performed to identify the type and concentration of the extract and the way of delivery.