Chemical composition and biological activities of Piper divaricatum G.Mey (Piperaceae) essential oil from different locations: an analysis of the literature.

Abstract

Piper divaricatum is an aromatic plant native to South America which has an essential oil with a rich chemical composition and promising biological activities. The main compounds found include phenylpropanoids such as methyl eugenol and eugenol, as well as monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes, the concentrations of which vary according to the geographical location of the specimens. These compounds are known to have relevant therapeutic properties, such as antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anaesthetic and insecticidal activities, which contribute to the activities observed in the oils in various studies. However, these studies are still in their infancy and further research is needed to better understand the possible applications of P. divaricatum essential oil. In this context, this mini-review seeks to provide information on the chemical and biological potential of the essential oil of the species, gathering data from studies carried out to date and demonstrating its potential, which is still little explored.