Campomanesia guazumifolia (Cambess.) O. Berg: Ethnobotany, cultivation and potentialities

Abstract

The species Campomanesia guazumifolia (Cambess.) O. Berg is a fruit tree native to the southern region of South America, occurring sparsely in secondary forests. It presents different ethnobotanical uses, mainly by indigenous populations. Its fruit is used for food purposes, in nature, or handcrafted products. Its cultivation has been investigated, with its seedlings being used in reforestation due to its ecological importance. Studies on the leaves of C. guazumifolia highlight the presence of phenolic compounds. The essential oil composition of the leaves has also been analyzed. Biological activities have already been investigated: insecticide, antioxidant and antimicrobial. C. guazumifolia is little explored, despite the great potential for the elaboration of products due to its ethnobotanic indication and capacity to produce edible fruits.