EXPLORANDO O POTENCIAL MEDICINAL DA CHAPADA DO ARARIPE: APOCYNACEAE E Himatanthus drasticus (Mart.) Plumel

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.5892417097

• Palavras-chave: Plantas medicinais, Chapada do Araripe, Apocynaceae, Himatanthus drasticus, Potencial terapêutico.

• Keywords: Medicinal plants, Chapada do Araripe, Apocynaceae, Himatanthus drasticus, Therapeutic potential.

• Abstract: The proposed study aims to investigate the medicinal potential of Chapada do Araripe, a region of high biodiversity, focusing on the botanical family Apocynaceae and the species Himatanthus drasticus. Contextualizing the historical use of medicinal plants, highlighting their evolution from home remedies to the raw material for modern medicines. Furthermore, it highlights the importance of ethnopharmacological research to discover new treatments and promote sustainable practices. Also focusing on the Brazilian Northeast, recognized for the intense use of medicinal plants by local communities. Chapada do Araripe as an area of high biological relevance, where native species are traditionally used, although the therapeutic potential of most of them remains unknown. The importance of ethnobotanical studies is highlighted to boost the discovery of new herbal medicines and promote sustainable practices in the region. The Apocynaceae family is presented as an example, known for its medicinal properties and widely used by local communities. Finally, the Himatanthus drasticus species is covered in detail, highlighting its therapeutic properties and pharmacological potential. The study concludes by highlighting the importance of continuous research into these natural resources to expand therapeutic options, promote the preservation of biodiversity and contribute to the well-being of local communities.