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The Myrtaceae family, one of the most prominent botanical families, is represented in Brazil with different fruit species, rich in bioactive compounds and gastronomically appreciated. This study aimed to carry out an integrative review on the genus Eugenia, highlighting the pitangueira (E. uniflora L.), cagaiteira (E. dysenterica), grumixameira (E. brasiliensis), pereira (E. klotzschiana O. Berg), and uvaieira (E. pyriformis Cambess) and which flavonoids are present in these fruits. Articles published between 2016 and 2021 were selected from the following databases: Google Scholar, Periódicos CAPES, Scielo, and Science Direct. According to each database, the descriptors used as a search strategy addressed the popular and scientific names of the five selected species, associated or not with the term “flavonoid,” according to each database. The results showed that quercetin was the main flavonoid identified in the fruits, and the principal extraction method used was HPLC. Other interesting compounds, such as catechin, epicatechin, rutin, myricetin, and kaempferol, were also found. However, the amount and type of flavonoids detected varied according to the applied methodology. Hence, these studies highlight the importance of species of the genus Eugenia, which promotes beneficial health effects and possible applicability to the food and pharmaceutical industry.

This study describes anti-inflamatory activity of epicuticular wax (ECW) extracted from leaves of Eugenia brasiliensis Lam., and its isolated compounds, catechin and gallocatechin in a pleurisy model in mice. The results for exudation and cell migration showed that the extract and isolated compounds from the plant were effective in inhibiting these inflammatory parameters. The ECW demonstrated a dose-dependent effect on the inhibition of cell migration. The results for NOx levels reveals that the isolated compounds from Eugenia brasiliensis were effective in inhibiting the production of this inflammatory mediator, however, ECW were not able in inhibiting the production of NO in the pleural cavity, at the tested doses. The results here obtained, helps to reinforce the scientifically hypothesis that E. brasiliensis has an important anti-inflammatory activity, and that this effect may be, at least in part, by the presence of the compounds catechin and gallocatechin.

Phenolic compounds (PC) have presented antioxidant potential as well as antimicrobial action against several bacteria. This study aimed to extract PC from grumixama (Eugenia brasiliensis Lam.) pulp using solid phase extraction (SPE), then quantify the PC by Folin-Ciocalteu assay, and to evaluate the antioxidant activity (AA) from PC by DPPH, ABTS and FRAP methods as well as its antimicrobial activity by plate diffusion assay (PDA) and Minimal Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) assays. Additionally, the centesimal composition of the fruit and its mineral content by Total Reflection X-Ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy were determined. The fruit is a good source of PC which presented a higher contribution on AA from pulp than NPHRC. Calcium was the trace element in highest concentration in the pulp, followed by iron. PC from grumixama inhibited the growth of Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa but not Escherichia coli and Listeria monocytogenes in the PDA. PC showed antimicrobial activity against the five microorganisms tested in the MIC assay, in which S. aureus and B. cereus were the most sensitive. This study highlights the antioxidant and antimicrobial potential of Eugenia brasiliensis Lam. as natural agent in the development of functional foods and nutraceuticals.

The use of grumixama and jambolan in the preparation of food products is an interesting alternative, when considering the bioactive compounds present and their sensorial characteristics. In order to propagate the consumption of these fruits, both jams and yogurts of grumixama and jambolan were developed. The analysis of moisture content, fixed mineral residue, proteins, lipids, fibers, pH, acidity, and soluble solids were performed on the products obtained. The sensorial acceptability of the products was verified by hedonic scale tests and purchase intention. The influence of the type of processing was verified by the quantification of the total phenolic compounds, anthocyanins, and antioxidant activity. It has been found that the chemical composition and physical characteristics of the products developed are similar to other jams and yoghurts produced with different fruits. Processing grumixama and jambolan into jam reduced the phenolic content from 664.58 to 613.07 and 590.67 to 563.08 mg GAE/100 g, the anthocyanin content from 1.46 to 0.14 and 4.37 to 2.23 mg/100 g, and the antioxidant activity from 1273.25 to 1522.63 and 1292.53 to 1427.23 g sample/g of DPPH, respectively. However, the amount of these compounds in jams is still significant. The acceptability index was over 70% for all products, and majority of the tasters indicated (66% for the jams of grumixama and jambolan, 70% for the yogurt of jambolan and 55% for the yogurt of grumixama) that they would probably or would certainly buy the products, showing that it was well received. Therefore, the results obtained indicate potential use of these fruits in food products. El uso de grumichama y jambool en la preparación de productos alimenticios es una alternativa interesante, considerando los compuestos bioactivos presentes y sus características sensoriales. Con el fin de difundir el consumo de estas frutas, se desarrollaron formulaciones de mermelada y yogur de grumichama y jambool. Se realizaron análisis de humedad, residuos minerales fijos, proteínas, lípidos, fibras, pH, acidez y sólidos solubles en los productos obtenidos. La aceptabilidad sensorial de los productos se verificó mediante pruebas de escala hedónica e intención de compra. La influencia del procesamiento se verificó mediante la cuantificación de compuestos fenólicos totales, antocianinas y actividad antioxidante. Se verificó que la composición química y las características físicas de los productos desarrollados son similares a las de otras mermeladas y yogures producidos con diferentes frutas. El procesamiento de grumichama y jambool en forma de mermelada redujo el contenido de compuestos fenolicos de 664.58 a 613.07 mgAG/100g y 590.67 a 563.08 mgAG/100g, la cantidad de antocianinas de 1.46 a 0.14 mg/100g y 4,37 para 2.23 mg/100g y la actividad antioxidante de 1273.25 a 1522.63 g de muestra/g de DPPH y 1292.53 a 1427.23 g de muestra/g de DPPH, respectivamente, sin embargo, la cantidad de estos compuestos que se encuentran en las mermeladas sigue siendo significativa. El índice de aceptabilidad fue superior al 70% para todos los productos, y la mayoría de los catadores (66% para mermeladas de grumichama y jambool, 70% para yogur de jambool y 55% para yogur de grumichama) indicaron que probablemente o sin duda compraría, mostrando una buena aceptación. Por lo tanto, los resultados obtenidos indican el potencial de estas frutas para la preparación de productos alimenticios. A utilização da grumixama e do jambolão na elaboração de produtos alimentícios é uma alternativa interessante, considerando os compostos bioativos presentes e suas características sensoriais. Com o propósito de propagar o consumo destas frutas, desenvolveram-se formulações de geleia e iogurte de grumixama e de jambolão. Análises de umidade, resíduo mineral fixo, proteínas, lipídeos, fibras, pH, acidez e sólidos solúveis foram realizadas nos produtos obtidos. A aceitabilidade sensorial dos produtos foi verificada pelos testes de escala hedônica e intenção de compra. A influência do processamento foi verificada pela quantificação de compostos fenólicos totais, antocianinas e atividade antioxidante. Verificou-se que a composição química e as características físicas dos produtos desenvolvidos são similares à de outras geleias e iogurtes produzidos com diferentes frutas. O processamento da grumixama e do jambolão na forma de geleia reduziu o teor de fenóis de 664,58 para 613,07 e 590,67 para 563,08 mg AG/100g, a quantidade de antocianinas de 1,46 para 0,14 e 4,37 para 2,23mg/100g e a atividade antioxidante de 1273,25 para 1522,63 e 1292,53 para 1427,23 g amostra/g de DPPH, respectivamente, porém a quantidade destes compostos encontrada nas geleias ainda é significativa. O índice de aceitabilidade foi superior a 70% para todos os produtos, e a maioria dos provadores (66% para as geleias de grumixama e jambolão, 70% para o iogurte de jambolão e 55% para o iogurte de grumixama) indicou que provavelmente ou certamente compraria, demonstrando boa aceitação. Portanto, os resultados obtidos indicam o potencial dessas frutas para a elaboração de produtos alimentícios.

Devido à crescente dificuldade de combater microrganismos resistentes a antimicrobianos, o potencial antimicrobiano de algumas plantas tem despertado o interesse de pesquisadores por serem uma alternativa natural, e pelas potencialidades consagradas. O presente estudo teve por objetivo realizar triagem do potencial antimicrobiano, contra microrganismos patogênicos aos seres humanos, de extratos de plantas frutíferas silvestres por meio da determinação da concentração inibitória mínima (CIM). As plantas foram selecionadas pela indicação de uso popular e domesticação na região do Vale do Itajaí e seus extratos metanólicos foram submetidos à análise fitoquímica por cromatografiaem camada delgada usando reveladores específicos. O extrato da polpa madura de Marlierea tomentosa apresentou excelente atividade antimicrobiana contra a bactéria Staphyllococcus aureus e o extrato das sementes de Plinia edulis mostrou boa atividade. Os extratos das sementes de Eugenia brasiliensis, galhos de M. tomentosa e sementes de Myrcianthes pungens foram considerados moderadamente ativos. Pode ser concluido que há potencial antimicrobiano em alguns extratos estudados, porém ensaios complementares se fazem necessários com diferentes linhagens bacterianas, com o intuito de assegurar e complementar os resultados apresentados, além de isolar e identificar os respectivos princípios ativos.

Grumixama (Eugenia brasiliensis Lam.) is a Brazilian berry native to the Atlantic Rainforest. Information on nutritional and bioactive profiles of the fruit cultivated in the Brazilian Savannah (Cerrado) is not available in literature. The aim of this study was to investigate the physical and proximate composition; mineral, total phenolics, total tannins and total carotenoids contents; and antioxidant capacity (DPPH and FRAP assays) of the dark purple grumixama cultivated in the Cerrado area (Goiás State). Results showed a similar physical and proximate composition to those of grumixama native to the Atlantic Rainforest. However, grumixama from Cerrado presented the highest dietary fiber and magnesium contents. In addition, the Cerrado grumixama showed higher content of total phenolics (with a large amount of tannins), carotenoids and antioxidant capacity than those of grumixama native to the Atlantic Rainforest, cherry, blueberry, and fruits native to the Cerrado. Thus, the consumption of whole fruit (peel, pulp and seed) in healthy diets and its use as an ingredient for functional food products should be encouraged. RESUMO: Grumixama (Eugenia brasiliensis Lam.) é uma ‘berry’ nativa da Mata Atlântica. Informações sobre o perfil nutricional e bioativo do fruto cultivado no Cerrado não estão disponíveis na literatura. O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar a composição física e centesimal; o conteúdo em minerais, fenólicos totais, taninos totais e carotenoides totais; e a capacidade antioxidante (ensaios DPPH and FRAP) da grumixama roxa cultivada na região do Cerrado (Estado de Goiás). Os resultados mostraram uma composição física e centesimal similar à da grumixama nativa da Mata Atlântica. Entretanto, a grumixama cultivada no Cerrado apresentou teores de fibra alimentar e magnésio superiores. Além disso, a grumixama do Cerrado apresentou maiores teores de compostos fenólicos totais (com grande quantidade de taninos) e carotenoides e maior capacidade antioxidante do que os teores da grumixama nativa da Mata Atlântica, cereja, mirtilo e frutos nativos do Cerrado. Assim, o consumo do fruto inteiro (casca, polpa e semente) em dietas saudáveis e seu emprego como ingrediente em produtos alimentícios funcionais devem ser estimulados.

There is great interest in developing alternatives to improve food safety, since food-borne diseases (FBD) are a major public health concern worldwide. Plant extracts have the potential to inhibit microbial growth due to the action of secondary metabolites, such as phenolic compounds. This study evaluated the antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of phenolic compounds extracted from grumixama (Eugenia brasiliensis) and pitanga (Eugenia uniflora) fruits and the antimicrobial potential of extract of grumixama upon incorporation into cellulosic films. Both fruits were rich in total phenolic compounds and their extracts showed antioxidant activity. The crude and phenolic extracts of grumixama showed higher activity than those isolated from pitanga. All extracts inhibited the growth of Staphylococcus aureus. After incorporation into cellulosic films, the crude extract of grumixama remained active, reducing the S. aureus population in 4 log cycles. The cellulosic films incorporated with grumixama extract were stable after seven days of storage under refrigeration at 7º C; but they partially lost antimicrobial activity when exposed to UV radiation. These phenolic compound-containing cellulosic films could be used as a complementary preservation method of foods that are prone to contamination with S. aureus. Existe un gran interés en desarrollar alternativas para mejorar la seguridad alimentaria, ya que las enfermedades transmitidas por los alimentos son un importante problema de salud pública a nivel mundial. Los extractos de plantas tienen el potencial de inhibir el crecimiento microbiano debido a la acción de metabolitos secundarios, como los compuestos fenólicos. Este estudio evaluó las actividades antioxidantes y antimicrobianas de compuestos fenólicos extraídos de frutos de grumixama (Eugenia brasiliensis) y pitanga (Eugenia uniflora) y el potencial antimicrobiano del extracto de grumixama tras su incorporación a películas celulósicas. Ambas frutas eran ricas en compuestos fenólicos totales y sus extractos mostraron actividad antioxidante. Los extractos crudos y fenólicos de grumixama mostraron mayor actividad que los extractos de pitanga. Todos los extractos inhibieron el crecimiento de Staphylococcus aureus. Después de su incorporación a películas celulósicas, el extracto crudo de grumixama permaneció activo, reduciendo la población de S. aureus en 4 ciclos logarítmicos. Las películas celulósicas incorporadas con extracto de grumixama se mantuvieron estables tras siete días de almacenamiento en refrigeración a 7ºC; pero perdieron parcialmente la actividad antimicrobiana cuando se expusieron a la radiación UV. Estas películas celulósicas que contienen compuestos fenólicos podrían usarse como un método de conservación complementario de alimentos que son propensos a contaminarse con S. aureus. Existe um grande interesse em desenvolver alternativas para melhorar a segurança dos alimentos, uma vez que as doenças transmitidas por alimentos representam um grande problema de saúde pública em todo o mundo. Os extratos vegetais possuem potencial de inibição do crescimento microbiano devido à ação de metabólitos secundários, como os compostos fenólicos. Dessa forma, o presente estudo avaliou as atividades antioxidante e antimicrobiana de compostos fenólicos extraídos de grumixama (Eugenia brasiliensis) e pitanga (Eugenia uniflora), bem como o potencial antimicrobiano do extrato de grumixama incorporado em filmes celulósicos. Foi demonstrado que ambas as frutas possuem elevado teor de compostos fenólicos totais e seus extratos apresentaram atividade antioxidante. Os extratos bruto e fenólico de grumixama apresentaram maior atividade do que os extratos de pitanga. Todos os extratos inibiram o crescimento de Staphylococcus aureus. Após incorporação aos filmes celulósicos, o extrato bruto de grumixama permaneceu ativo, reduzindo a população de S. aureus em 4 ciclos logarítmicos. Os filmes celulósicos permaneceram estáveis após sete dias de armazenamento sob refrigeração a 7ºC; no entanto, perderam parcialmente a atividade antimicrobiana quando expostos à radiação UV. Conclui-se que esses filmes contendo compostos fenólicos podem ser usados como método complementar de preservação de alimentos propensos à contaminação com S. aureus.

The objective of this work was to evaluate the phytochemical composition and the antibacterial and antibiotic-modulating activities of the essential oils of Eugenia brasiliensis Lam (OEEb) and Piper mosenii C. DC (OEPm) singly or in association with blue LED (Light-emitting diode) light. The antibacterial and antibiotic-modulatory activities of the essential oils on the activity of aminoglycosides were evaluated to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC, &mu, g/mL) in the presence or absence of exposure to blue LED light. The chemical analysis showed &alpha, pinene and bicyclogermacrene as major constituents of OEPm, whereas &alpha, muurolol was the main compound of OEEb. Both OEEb and OEPm showed MIC &ge, 512 &mu, g/mL against the strains under study. However, the association of these oils with the blue LED light enhanced the action of the aminoglycosides amikacin and gentamicin. In conclusion, the association of aminoglycosides with the blue LED light and essential oils was effective against resistant bacteria.

Many fruit species are still not well-studied, despite being rich in bioactive substances that have functional properties. The objective of this article was to evaluate the antioxidant potential and characterize the physical-chemical characteristics of unconventional brazilian fruits (cabeludinha - Myrciaria glazioviana, sapoti - Manilkara zapota, pitomba - Talisia esculenta, yellow gumixama - Eugenia brasiliensis var. Leucocarpus and seriguela - Spondias purpurea). Total soluble solids, pH, titratable acidity, sugars, pigments, phenolic compounds and antioxidant capacity were measured. Mature fruits were used in the analyses. Pitomba had high levels of soluble solids, 24.6 °Brix, while sapoti had 0.05 g malic acid 100 g-1 pulp. Yellow grumixama and seriguela had the highest concentrations of anthocyanins and carotenoids. Cabeludinha had a high concentration of phenolic compounds, 451.60 mg gallic acid 100 g-1 pulp. With the exception of sapoti, all fruits had a high antioxidant capacity (> 95%). Resumen El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar el potencial antioxidante y caracterizar las propiedades fisicoquímicas de frutas exóticas en Brasil (cabeludinha - Myrciaria glazioviana, sapoti - Manilkara zapota, pitomba - Talisia esculenta, gumixama amarilla - Eugenia brasiliensis var. Leucocarpus y seriguela - Spondias purpurea). Para el efecto se realizaron análisis de sólidos solubles, pH, acidez titulable, azúcares, pigmentos, compuestos fenólicos y actividad antioxidante. Los frutos fueron cosechados en estado de madurez fisiológica y para los análisis se utilizaron las partes comestibles de la fruta. Los frutos presentaron elevado contenido de sólidos solubles y baja acidez titulable, sobresalieron la pitomba con 24.6 °Brix y sapoti con 0.05 g de ácido málico 100 g-1 pulpa. Grumixama amarilla y seriguela resentaron mayor contenido de antocianinas y carotenoides. Cabeludinha presentó elevado contenido de compuestos fenólicos, en promedio de 451.60 mg ácido gálico por 100 g de pulpa. Con excepción de sapoti, todas las frutas mostraron elevada actividad antioxidante (> 95%).

Made available in DSpace on 2019-10-04T12:39:41Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2019-05-01. Added 1 bitstream(s) on 2019-10-09T18:34:17Z : No. of bitstreams: 1 S0100-40422019004500485.pdf: 213458 bytes, checksum: 4337dcb48da0a798dc1ba1932d8e806c (MD5) Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq) Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP) The upscaling of Xylaria cubensis, an endophyte of Eugenia brasiliensis (Myrtaceae), in PDB medium led to the isolation of known compounds including cytochalasin D (7) and cytochalasin C (8), which exhibited relatively higher phytotoxic activity in all the concentrations tested compared to the commercial herbicide GOAL (R). Besides the aforementioned metabolites, one dikctopiperazinc (DKP) and two isocoumarins were isolated and two DKPs were also identified in the mixture. The structures were determined by 1D and 2D H-1 NMR, MS analyses and were compared with the literature. Univ Estadual Paulista, Inst Quim, Dept Quim Organ, BR-14800900 Araraquara, SP, Brazil Univ Fed Sao Carlos, Dept Bot, BR-13565905 Sao Carlos, SP, Brazil Univ Fed Vicosa, Dept Fitopatol, BR-36570000 Vicosa, MG, Brazil Univ Fed Lavras, Dept Fitopatol, BR-37200000 Lavras, MG, Brazil Univ Estadual Paulista, Inst Quim, Dept Quim Organ, BR-14800900 Araraquara, SP, Brazil CNPq: 140980/2012-1 FAPESP: 2013/07600-3

Among the rich Brazilian biodiversity, a wide range of native and exotic fruit species are found. Many of these fruits have high nutritional and bioactive value, being important sources of minerals, phenolic compounds, vitamins, dietary fiber, among others. Also, the prevention of several diseases and disorders have being associated to the action of phytochemical compounds present in fruits with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiproliferative effects, for example. However, despite the potential of these fruits to be explored economically, many of them remain unknown to a large part of the population and food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetical industries, being produced and consumed only locally. Therefore, summarize information about potential Brazilian native fruits species is essential to stimulate their better use and reinforce the local economy promoting the cultivation and exploration of these fruits. In this context, this review summarizes and discusses the physicochemical characteristics, nutrients, phytochemical compounds, and biological properties of seven dark-colored underexploited Brazilian fruits species: Bactris setosa, Eugenia brasiliensis, Eugenia involucrata, Euterpe edulis, Myrcianthes pungens, Myrciaria cauliflora, and Myrciaria jaboticaba.

This work aims at evaluating the tolerance of seeds of Eugenia brasiliensis Lam., E. involucrata DC., E. pyriformis Camb., and E. uniflora L. (Myrtaceae) to water deficit. Germination was carried out in polyethylene glycol 6000 solutions, at different osmotic potentials (0.0, -0.5, -1.0, -1.5, -2.0, -3.0, -4.0, and -5.0 MPa). The seeds were also placed in trays containing sand as substrate, and the water was replenished at different times, for up to 34 days. Seeds were evaluated as for their ability to undergoing a deficit period, and of germinating when water was made available again. In general, Eugenia spp. seeds were able to germinate at up to -1.5 MPa. In water potentials lower than 0.0 MPa, the beginning of germination experienced a delay, and it became better distributed throughout time. In the trays, the water restriction for up to 16 days did not limit normal seedling development. Seeds of Eugenia spp. were considerably tolerant to water deficit, as for both intensity and duration, which guarantees the development of seedlings and the propagation of the species.

Seeds of Eugenia species can produce new roots and whole plants even when much of its reserves is removed. However, new roots and seedlings rarely are formed spontaneously, and after cutting, each seed fragment usually produces only one new seedling, suggesting some control of the formation of several seedlings. It is possible, therefore, that germination leads to the production of inhibitory substances avoiding the development of new embryonic tissues. In the present work we have analyzed the potential of germinating seeds of Eugenia uniflora and Eugenia brasiliensisto inhibit new roots and seedling growth. Seeds were germinated after totally or partially fractionated. This last one was also totally fractionated after the development of a seedling, and the halves were also germinated. The results showed that the germination of the E. uniflora and E. brasiliensis seeds have inhibited the formation of new roots and seedlings. Resumo:Sementes de espécies de Eugenia têm potencial para gerar novas raízes e até plantas inteiras mesmo após a remoção de grande parte de suas reservas. Contudo, a formação de novas raízes e plântulas raramente ocorre de forma espontânea e, quando as sementes são fracionadas, cada fragmento normalmente produz apenas uma nova plântula, sugerindo algum autocontrole na formação de várias plântulas. É possível, portanto, que uma vez iniciada a germinação, a semente produza substâncias inibitórias à diferenciação de novos tecidos embrionários. No presente trabalho analisou-se, em sementes de Eugenia uniflorae Eugenia brasiliensis, o potencial de inibição do crescimento de raízes e plântulas a partir do início da primeira germinação. Sementes dessas espécies foram submetidas a fracionamento total ou parcial (fissura) e colocadas para germinar. Após a germinação das fissuradas, em uma parte das mesmas o fracionamento foi completado, separando-se as metades, que foram também colocadas para germinar. Os resultados mostraram que a germinação de sementes de E. uniflora e E. brasiliensis inicia processos de inibição da regeneração de novas raízes e plântulas na semente.

The grumixama is a little sweet cherry distinguished in three varieties according to their fruit colors: purple, red, and yellow. It is distributed in the south and southeast regions of Brazil and have been used for artesanal goods such as commercial frozen pulp and fruit and other derivatives. The yellow and purple fruits are a good source of bioactive compounds, mainly phenolic compounds (flavonoids and ellagitannins) and carotenoids. While purple grumixama presents a great amount of anthocyanin, mainly cyanidin 3-glucoside, responsible for the purple color, the flavonol quercetin is the main flavonoid on the yellow fruit. Furthermore, grumixama is rich in ellagitannins, another class of phenolic compound, mainly monomeric form of castalagin/vescalagin and strictinin in purple and yellow grumixama, respectively. The bioactive compounds have been investigated as possible agents to reduce the incidence of chronical diseases and therefore can be a factor to support the increase of commercial production of this fruit beyond their sensorial quality.

Este trabalho foi desenvolvido com o objetivo de estudar o potencial de enraizamento de estacas de grumixameira ( Eugenia brasiliensis ), tratadas com diferentes concentracoes de reguladores de crescimento em ambientes de cultivo. Estacas herbaceas foram coletadas de plantas matrizes. As estacas tinham entre 8 e 10 cm de comprimento. Foram deixados dois pares de folhas e duas a tres gemas por estaca. Os tratamentos consistiram na combinacao entre dois ambientes de cultivo (câmara de nebulizacao e mini estufas) e dois tipos de hormonios (GA3 e 2,4-D) em quatro doses (0,00; 0,05, 0,10, 0,20 mg L-1). O delineamento foi em blocos ao acaso em esquema fatorial (2 x 2 x 4) com tres repeticoes e dez estacas por parcela. Foram avaliadas 100 dias apos o plantio, as porcentagens de estacas enraizadas, estacas vivas, formacao de calos e numero de raizes emitidas por estaca. Conclui-se que para a aplicacao dos hormonios vegetais nao houve diferencas significativas entre os tratamentos, porem houve resultado mais significativo para as dosagens intermediarias de GA3 e 2,4-D, sendo que o ambiente mini estufa foi mais eficiente em relacao a sobrevivencia. Palavras-chave: Eugenia brasiliensis , propagacao, hormonio. GRUMIXAMA PROPAGATION IN GROWTH REGULATORS FUNCTION AND CULTIVATION ENVIRONMENTS ABSTRACT This paper was developed with the goal of studying the potential of rooting grumixameira cuttings ( Eugenia brasiliensis ) that have beentreated with different concentrations of growth regulators and cultivation environments. Herbaceous cuttings were collected from mother plants. The cuttings were between 8 and 10 cm, which resulted in two to three gems per cutting. The treatments included two growing environments and two hormone types in five doses. The environments consisted of a nebulization chamber and a micro chamber made with pet bottles. GA3 and 2,4-D were the plant growth regulators used in four concentrations (0, 0.5, 0.1 and 0.2 mg L-1). The delimitation was in randomized blocks in factorial (2 x 2 x 4) with three repetitions and ten cuttings per portion. After 100 days of plantation, the percentage of rooted cutting, live cutting, formation of calluses and number of roots issued per cutting was examined. It’s possible to conclude that, for the application of vegetables hormones, there weren’t relevant difference between both, although there was a more significant result for the intermediate doses of GA3 and 2,4-D, in which the micro chamber greenhouse was the more efficient in relation with survival of cuttings. Keywords: Eugenia brasiliensi , propagation, hormone. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5935/2318-7670.v05n02a06

Eugenia brasiliensis Lam. ("grumixameira"), Eugenia uniflora L. ("pitangueira") and Eugenia pyriformis Cambess. ("uvaieira") are forest and fruit species of pharmacological and gastronomic potential and have desiccation-sensitive seeds. The development of quick viability tests for the assessment of physiological quality of these seeds is needed. The tetrazolium test is an important method providing fast assessment of the seed physiological quality. Thus, this work aimed to develop a method for the tetrazolium test for determining viability of "grumixameira," "pitangueira" and "uvaieira" seeds. Initially the seeds of these species were soaked in water for 3 h at 25 ºC. Three concentrations of tetrazolium solutions were analyzed (0.100 %, 0.125 % and 0.250 %) for seed staining using three incubation periods (2, 3 and 6 h) at 35 ºC in the dark. After staining, seed viability was determined. Then, the seeds were subjected to different levels of controlled drying and were analyzed for their physiological quality by germination and electrical conductivity tests. The tetrazolium test is a suitable tool for determining viability after staining the seeds at 35 ºC using a 0.250 % concentration solution for 3 hours for "grumixameira" seeds, 0.125 % for 3 hours for "pitangueira" seeds and 0.100 % for 2 hours for "uvaieira" seeds. Grumixameira (Eugenia brasiliensis Lam.), pitangueira (Eugenia uniflora L.) e uvaieira (Eugenia pyriformis Cambess.) são espécies florestais e frutíferas de potencial farmacológico e gastronômico e apresentam sementes sensíveis à dessecação. O teste de tetrazólio é um importante componente para a rápida avaliação da viabilidade de sementes. Assim, o presente estudo teve como objetivo adequar a metodologia do teste de tetrazólio para a determinação da viabilidade de sementes de grumixameira, pitangueira e uvaieira. Sementes dessas três espécies foram pré-umedecidas em água por 3 h a 25 ºC. Após, foram coloridas com soluções de tetrazólio nas concentrações de 0,100%, 0,125% e 0,250% por 2, 3 e 6 horas, a 35 °C no escuro. Após lavagem, determinou-se a viabilidade das sementes. As sementes foram também submetidas a diferentes níveis de secagem e foram analisadas quanto aos seus atributos fisiológicos pelos testes de germinação e condutividade elétrica. O teste de tetrazólio, com coloração das sementes a 35 ºC usando-se uma concentração da solução de 0, 250% com incubação por 3 horas para sementes de grumixameira, a 0,125% por 3 horas para sementes de pitangueira e a 0,100% por 2 horas para sementes de uvaieira, mostra-se como uma eficiente ferramenta para a avaliação da viabilidade dessas sementes.

This study describes the seasonal composition and the antibacterial, antioxidant and anticholinesterase activity of the essential oil from Eugenia brasiliensis leaves. Analysis by using GC allowed the identification of 40 compounds. It was observed that the monoterpenes varied more (42%) than the sesquiterpenes (14%), and that the monoterpene hydrocarbons suffered the greatest variation throughout the year (64%). Major compounds were spathulenol in the spring (16.02 ± 0.44%) and summer (18.17 ± 0.41%), τ-cadinol in the autumn (12.83 ± 0.03%) and α-pinene (15.94 ± 0.58%) in the winter. Essential oils were tested for their antibacterial activity, and the best result was obtained from the autumn oil, with MIC = 500 μg mL− 1 against Staphylococcus saprophyticus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Antioxidant activity was evaluated using DPPH, lipid peroxidation and iron-reducing power assays, as well as the anticholinesterase activity. Both tests showed a weak performance of the essential oils.

This study details a method to characterize the triterpene acid-rich extract obtained from the defatted leaves of Eugenia brasiliensis (Myrtaceae) via extraction with 2 % NaOH in ethanol at room temperature. The crude extract (yield 2.35 %) was submitted to analysis by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC–MS) confirming ursolic acid as its major compound. The optimal conditions for the separation of oleanolic, betulinic and ursolic acids were assayed by GC with flame ionization detection (GC–FID) using two different columns (DB-5 and DB-17HT) and by applying two distinct derivatizing protocols. The use of a DB-17HT column led to the best results, with a shorter runtime and a better resolution (Rs) between the oleanolic and betulinic signals for both the bis-trimethylsilyl (Rs 2.84) and methyl ester derivatives (Rs 2.47). A DB-5 column also gave satisfactory results for the TMS ester, with a runtime of 30 min and Rs 2.14. Ursolic acid in the crude extract was quantified by comparison to two individual standard curves determined using commercial ursolic as its TMS derivative on the DB-5 column and its methyl ester on the DB-17HT column. Good linearity was achieved in both cases (r2 = 0.9776 and 0.9953, respectively), and the amounts of ursolic acid in the extracts were calculated to be 144.7 and 147.9 mg·g−1, respectively. These results showed no significant differences when compared using Tukey’s HSD test. Total triterpene acids amounted to 0.52 % in E. brasiliensis dry leaves.

Eugenia brasiliensis Lam., locally known as Grumixama, is a species of Myrtaceae commercially underexploited in Brazil. The study was performed in order to identify and quantify, by high performance liquid chromatography, bioactive compounds such as vitamin C, carotenoids, anthocyanins, flavonoids and phenolic acids in the fruits of this species. The vitamin C content in the edible part was 18.75 mg.100 g-1, classifying this fruit as rich in this bioactive compound. Eight carotenoids were identified and quantified, the main one was Beta-cryptoxanthin with a content of 22.3 µg.g-1, sufficiently high to consider this fruit as a new source of this carotenoid. Also, 4837.21 mg.100 g-1 of the anthocyanins were obtained in the freeze-dried fruit peels. Furthermore, ten, nine and seven phenolic compounds were identified in the peel, pulp and seeds of grumixama, respectively. The results showed that the fruit of grumixama is promising for exploitation and has the potential for innovative healthy products.

Desiccation sensitive seeds, such as those of Eugenia brasiliensis Lam. (grumixama) and E. pyriformis Cambess. (uvaia), also known as recalcitrant, need to be stored with high water content and temperatures above 0 °C. Such conditions keep these seeds with high metabolism, thus reducing their longevity, and allowing the development of microorganisms, especially fungi, accelerating their deterioration speed. Heat and osmotic treatments have shown some success for the control of some fungi associated with these seeds. However, to better measure the effectiveness of these treatments, the evaluation criteria needs to be refined, taking into account not only their incidence but also their intensity. Thus, in the present study, the percentage of seeds infected by the fungi (incidence) as well as the degree of infection on the seed surface (severity) of E. brasiliensis and E. pyriformis were evaluated after applying heat and osmotic treatments which controlled most fungi found in these seeds, except for Fusarium sp. and Penicillium sp. The evaluation of the severity showed that the effect of the treatments is not only quantitative, reducing the number of infected seeds; there was also a change in the development of the fungi, often reducing the severity of the infection, thus enabling the detection of differences between treatments that were not easily recognized when only using the incidence evaluation. Resumo: Sementes intolerantes à desidratação e às baixas temperaturas, como as sementes de Eugenia brasiliensis Lam. (grumixameira) e E. pyriformis Cambess. (uvaieira), denominadas recalcitrantes, precisam ser armazenadas com alto teor de água e temperaturas acima de 0 °C. Tais condições mantêm as sementes com metabolismo elevado, reduzindo sua longevidade, e propiciam o desenvolvimento de microrganismos, principalmente os fungos, acelerando sua velocidade de deterioração. Resultados recentes apontam algum sucesso dos tratamentos térmicos e osmóticos no controle de alguns fungos associados a essas sementes. Contudo, para melhor aferição da eficácia desses tratamentos há necessidade de refinar os critérios de avaliação, considerando-se não apenas a incidência, mas, também, sua intensidade. Assim, no presente trabalho avaliou-se, além da porcentagem de sementes infectadas pelos fungos (incidência), o grau de infecção na superfície da semente (severidade) de E. brasiliensis e E. pyriformis após a aplicação de tratamentos térmicos e osmóticos. Os tratamentos osmóticos e térmicos controlam a maioria dos fungos presentes em sementes de E. brasiliensis e E. pyriformis, mas apresentam baixa eficiência para o controle da incidência de Fusarium sp. e Penicillium sp. A avaliação da severidade permitiu observar que o efeito dos tratamentos não é apenas quantitativo, reduzindo o número de sementes infectadas, ocorrendo também alteração no desenvolvimento dos fungos, por vezes reduzindo a severidade da infecção, permitindo, assim, detectar diferenças entre tratamentos não identificáveis na avaliação da incidência.

The aim of this study was to assess the anti-quorum sensing activity of phenolic extracts from grumixama (Eugenia brasiliensis), also known as Brazilian cherry, in concentrations that did not interfere with bacterial growth. The pulp phenolic compounds were extracted by using solid phage extraction in a mini-collumn C18 and quantified by spectrophotometry. The anti-quorum sensing activity was evaluated by testing the inhibition of violacein production in Chromobacterium violaceum and by evaluating the swarming motility in Aeromonas hydrophila and Serratia marcescens, both phenotypes regulated by quorum sensing. The phenolic extract strongly inhibited the production of violacein in C. violaceum, reducing its production in comparison with a control with no extract. No inhibition of growth was observed at the concentrations tested for quorum sensing inhibition. Confirming the quorum sensing inhibition phenotype, the extract was also able to inhibit swarming motility in S. marcescens and in A. hydrophila, although in the later the effect was marginal. Overall, these results indicate that phenolic extract from E. brasiliensis presents quorum sensing inhibitory activity most likely due to the presence of fruit phenolics which have been implicated as quorum sensing inhibitors in Gram negative bacteria.

Tea prepared from leaves of Eugenia brasiliensis has been used as a folk medicine in Brazil to alleviate inflammation and pain. In this study, tea and methanolic extract inhibited cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and -2) enzymes and lipid peroxidation (LPO). Therefore, bioassay-guided purification of methanolic extract was carried out and afforded a new lignan ( aR,8S,8'R-7,8,7’,8'-tetrahydro-8,8'-dimethyl-3,3'-dimethoxy-4,4'-dihydroxy-dibenzocyclooctadiene) and three known C-methylated flavonoids (stropopinin; demethoxymatteucinol; myrigalone G). All isolates at 37.5 μg/mL inhibited COX enzymes, similar to aspirin and ibuprofen used as controls at 108 and 12 μg/mL, respectively. Most of the isolates also showed strong LPO inhibition at 5μg/mL.

Eugenia brasiliensis Lam., a plant from the south of Brazil, is used in the popular medicine for rheumatism treatment. This study reports that topical application of hydroalcoholic extract, fractions and isolated compounds from E. brasiliensis caused an inhibition of ear oedema in response to topical application of croton oil on the mouse ear. For oedema inhibition, the estimated ID50 values (dose reducing the inflammatory response by 50% relative to the control value) for hydroalcoholic extract and fractions (hexane, ethyl acetate and dichloromethane) were 0.17, 0.29, 0.13 and 0.14 mg/ear, respectively, with inhibition of 79 ± 7%, 87 ± 6%, 88 ± 5% and 96 ± 2%, respectively. Isolated phenolic compounds (quercetin, catechin and gallocatechin) were also effective in inhibiting the oedema (inhibition of 61 ± 5%, 66 ± 2% and 37 ± 9%, respectively). Moreover, both extract and isolated compounds caused inhibition of polymorphonuclear cells influx (inhibition of 85 ± 6%, 81 ± 5%, 73 ± 6% and 76 ± 6%, respectively). The histological analysis of the ear tissue clearly confirmed that the extract and compounds of E. brasiliensis inhibited the influx of polymorphonuclear cells to mouse ear skin after application of croton oil. Furthermore, hydroalcoholic extract was also effective in inhibiting the arachidonic acid-mediated mouse ear oedema (ID50 value was 1.94 mg/ear and inhibition of 60 ± 7%). Therefore, these results consistently support the notion that E. brasiliensis possesses topical anti-inflammatory activity.

Brazilian native fruits are unmatched in their variety, but a poorly explored resource for the development of food and pharmaceutical products. The aim of this study was to evaluate the phenolic composition as well as the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of the extracts of leaves, seeds, and pulp of four Brazilian native fruits (Eugenia leitonii, Eugenia involucrata, Eugenia brasiliensis, and Eugenia myrcianthes). GC—MS analyses of the ethanolic extracts showed the presence of epicatechin and gallic acid as the major compounds in these fruits. Antioxidant activity was measured using synthetic DPPH free-radical scavenging, β-carotene bleaching assay, and reactive oxygen species (ROO·, O2·−, and HOCl). The fruit extracts also exhibited antioxidant effect against biologically relevant radicals such as peroxyl, superoxide, and hypochlorous acid. In general, the pulps were the fruit fractions that exhibited the lowest antioxidant activities, whereas the leaves showed the highest ones. The anti-inflammatory activity was assessed in an in vivo model using the carrageenan-induced neutrophil migration assay, which evaluates the inflammatory response in the acute phase. The pulp, seeds, and leaves of these fruits reduced the neutrophil influx by 40% to 64%. Based on these results, we suggest that the anti-inflammatory activity of these native fruits is related to the modulation of neutrophil migration, through the inhibition of cytokines, chemokines, and adhesion molecules, as well as to the antioxidant action of their ethanolic extracts in scavenging the free-radicals released by neutrophils. Therefore, these native fruits can be useful to produce food additives and functional foods.

The use of the Brazilian biodiversity by the population remains a major source of discovery of new bioactive chemical entities. In this work a literature review is carried out relative to botany characteristics, ethnobotany, pharmacological activity, toxicological and chemical composition of Eugenia species: Eugenia brasiliensis Lam, Eugenia dysenterica DC, Eugenia umbelliflora O. Berg, Eugenia florida DC., Eugenia involucrate DC. and Eugenia uniflora L. This retrospective descriptive study aims to evaluate the biopotential of the species belonging to this gender as well as the advancement in the development of the phytomedicines using these plants.

As sementes de grumixama (Eugenia brasiliensis Lam.) e pitanga (Eugenia uniflora L.) são intolerantes à dessecação e seu elevado teor de água favorece a proliferação de fungos que podem acelerar sua deterioração. A falta de fungicidas registrados para tais espécies requer estudos sobre métodos alternativos. O objetivo deste trabalho foi determinar o efeito de tratamentos térmicos e osmóticos na incidência de fungos e na viabilidade de sementes de grumixama e pitanga. Foram analisados os efeitos de tratamentos térmicos (55 e 60 °C por 30, 120 ou 150 minutos) e osmóticos (soluções de polietileno glicol a -3,4 e -4,0 MPa) isolados ou associados e, ainda, com ou sem reaplicação durante o armazenamento das sementes. Verificou-se que o tratamento térmico foi mais eficiente que o osmótico na redução da maioria dos fungos encontrados, exceto Fusarium sp. A associação dos dois tipos de tratamento produz resultados favoráveis e a reaplicação dos mesmos pode ampliar o controle dos fungos ao longo do armazenamento. Seeds of Brazilian cherry (Eugenia brasiliensis Lam.) and Surinam cherry (Eugenia uniflora L.) are intolerant to desiccation and their high water content allows the proliferation of fungi, accelerating their deterioration. Due to the lack of fungicides registered for such species further studies on alternative methods should be carried out. The present work was aimed at analyzing the effects of heat and osmotic treatments on the mycota and seed viability of Brazilian cherry and Surinam cherry. We analyzed the effect of heat treatment (55 and 60 °C for 30, 120, or 150 minutes) and osmotic treatment (polyethylene glycol solutions at -3.4 and -4.0 MPa), each tested individually or in combination and also with or without reapplication throughout seed storage. Our results showed that heat treatment was more efficient than osmotic treatment for most fungi, except for Fusarium sp. The combination of both treatments produced favorable results and their reapplication may enhance the control of seed-borne fungi during storage.

The volatile leaf oil of Eugenia brasiliensis growing in Reunion (Indian Ocean) extracted by hydrodistillation was investigated using capillary GC and GC/MS. The volatile oil contained limonene (13.9%), α-pinene (10.9%), 1,8-cineole (7.4%), β-pinene (6.1%) and linalool (6.0%) as major components. Additional 74 compounds have been detected in the volatile oil, 71 of which have been identified.

Made available in DSpace on 2022-04-28T18:57:18Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2011-01-01 Aiming to evaluate the effect of the pine bark substrate porosity on the development of the grumixama plant (Eugenia brasiliensis Lam.), an experiment was conducted in a greenhouse of the Escola Superior de Agricultura Luiz de Queiroz/USP, Piracicaba, Brazil. The treatments were: 100% ground pine bark without separation of particles; 100% pine bark of ≤ 0,1mm; 75% pine bark of ≤ 0,1mm + 25% between 0,1-4,0 mm; 50% of pine bark ≤ 0,1mm + 50% between 0,1-4,0 mm; 25% pine bark of ≤ 0,1mm + 75% between 0,1-4,0 mm and 100% pine bark of 0,1-4,0 mm. The evaluations (stem diameter, length and average dry weight of seedlings) were performed on the 90, 120 and 150th days after sowing. The low water absorption in the early stages and the low aeration of the roots promoted by the substrate, affect the development of the grumixama plant seedlings, that grow best when the total pore space of the substrate is less than 90% (v / v). APTA SAA, Polo Centro Leste, Av. Bandeirantes, 2419, CEP 14030-670, Ribeirão Preto-SP APTA SAA, Polo Centro Oeste-UPD Marília, Rua Andrade Neves-81, CEP 17515-400 Marília-SP ESALQ USP, Av. Pádua Dias, 11, Piracicaba-SP APTA SAA, Polo Alta Sorocabana, Rod. Raposo Tavares, CEP 19015-970, Presidente Prudente-SP UNESP APTA SAA, Pólo Centro Leste, Av. Bandeirantes, 2419, Botucatu-SP UNESP APTA SAA, Pólo Centro Leste, Av. Bandeirantes, 2419, Botucatu-SP

Eugenia brasiliensis Lam. is a variable species concerning fruit colour, with three recognized varieties. However, the definition of varieties is not easy for Myrtaceae species and not widely accepted. Two fruit colour varieties (purple and yellow) of E. brasiliensis had their essential oil composition analysed in order to give support to the existence of varieties for this species. Although, the major components in the leaf oil are the same monoterpenes for both varieties, alpha-pinene, beta-pinene and 1,8-cineol, the purple fruit variety accumulates more oxygenated sesquiterpenes (33.9%) than the one with yellow fruits (3.8%). The major differences occurred in purple fruits that present as major components caryophyllene oxide (22.2%) and alpha-cadinol (10.4%), not found in the leaf oil, and the yellow fruit oil presented a similar composition as observed for the leaves. These fruit colour varieties of E. brasilensis can be considered as two distinct chemotypes, since the sesquiterpene pathway is more operant in the purple variety than in the yellow one, in which monoterpenes are mainly accumulated. A espécie Eugenia brasiliensis Lam. apresenta a coloração dos frutos variável, sendo reconhecidas três variedades. Entretanto, a definição de variedades não é fácil para espécies de Myrtaceae e também não é amplamente aceita. Duas variedades de Eugenia brasiliensis, baseado na cor dos frutos (roxos e amarelos), tiveram a composição de seus óleos essenciais analisadas com a finalidade de obter indícios de variedade botânica para esta espécie. Embora, os componentes principais nos óleos das folhas fossem os mesmos monoterpenos para ambas as variedades, alfa-pineno, beta-pineno e 1,8-cineol, a variedade com frutos roxos acumulou maior quantidade de sesquiterpenos oxigenados (33,9%) do que aquela com frutos amarelos (3,8%). As diferenças principais ocorreram nos frutos roxos que apresentaram como componente principal o óxido de cariofileno (22,2%) e o alfa-cadinol (10,4%), não detectados no óleo das folhas, e o óleo dos frutos amarelos apresentou uma composição similar àquela observada para as folhas. Estas variedades de coloração dos frutos de E. brasilensis podem ser considerados como dois quimiotipos distintos, uma vez que na variedade com frutos roxos a rota biossintética para sesquiterpenos encontra-se mais operante do que naquela com frutos amarelos, onde são acumulados principalmente os monoterpenos.

Eugenia Linnaeus (1753: 470) is the largest genus in Myrtaceae, with the highest number of species of trees in the rainforests and semi-deciduous of the Brazilian Atlantic Forest region (Oliveira-Filho & Fontes 2000). Eugenia is currently estimated to contain ca. 1000 species (WCSP 2012), distributed from South of Mexico, Cuba, the Antilles to Uruguay and Argentina, with a small number of species (ca. 60) in Africa (Van der Merwe et al. 2005). Some species, with edible fruits are cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions (e.g., Eugenia uniflora L.(1753: 470) and Eugenia brasiliensis Lamarck (1789: 203)).

O presente trabalho apresenta a anatomia foliar de Eugenia brasiliensis Lam., cujo óleo essencial possui propriedades anti-reumática, diurética, anti-inflamatória, além de ser ativo contra o Tripanosoma cruzi. O estudo foi feito, comparando-se folhas coletadas em áreas de restinga e de floresta, registrando-se as diferenças estruturais resultantes da influência dos fatores ambientais. Anatomicamente, a folha de E. brasiliensis é hipostomática, glabra, dorsiventral, com tendência à isobilateralidade. A epiderme apresenta notável espessamento da cutícula e seus estratos. Em posição subepidérmica, ocorrem numerosas cavidades secretoras de óleos essenciais, nas duas faces da lâmina foliar. No parênquima lacunoso situam-se drusas de oxalato de cálcio. As folhas provenientes da restinga apresentam, em relação àquelas coletadas na floresta, maior quantidade de estruturas secretoras de óleos essenciais, maior concentração de substâncias ergásticas, maior espessamento da cutícula e da lâmina foliar, maior quantidade de estômatos, mesofilo mais compacto, fibras esclerenquimáticas e elementos xilemáticos com maior grau de lignificação e maior densidade da rede vascular. Os dados obtidos são indicativos que a escolha do local de coleta de E. brasiliensis é relevante, tendo em vista que, na área da restinga, observa-se maior produção de óleos essenciais e demais substâncias associadas aos seus efeitos terapêuticos. The present paper presents the foliar anatomy of Eugenia brasiliensis Lam. The essential oils produced by this species present anti-reumathic, diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties and show activity against Tripanosoma cruzi. This study was carried out by comparison between leaves developed in restinga and forest areas, in order to register the main differences in the structure of this organ related to environmental conditions. Anatomically, the leaf of E. brasiliensis is hipostomatic, glabrous, with dorsiventral mesophyll, whit tendency towards the isobilateral type. Thickness of the cuticle and cutinized wall is noteworthy. In sub-epidermical position, there are many secretory cavities that produce essential oils, in both sides of the foliar blade. In the spongy parenchyma there are calcium oxalate druses crystals. E. brasiliensis leaves developed in restinga area present, in relation to that proceeding from forest, a larger amount of secretory structures, a higher ergastic substances concentration, thicker cuticle and foliar blade, more abundant stomata, a more compact mesophyll, sclerenchyma fibers and xilem elements with a deeper lignification and a greater development of the vascular system. The data obtained in this research suggest that the choice of the area where E. brasiliensis should be collected is important, because in restinga area it presents a greater production of essential oils and other substances associated with therapeutic effects.