Botanical Overview
Jaboticaba (Myrciaria cauliflora) is a species in the Myrtaceae family. The myrtle family (Myrtaceae) includes trees and shrubs with opposite leaves that contain aromatic oil glands. The flowers are showy with numerous stamens, and the fruits are often fleshy berries or capsules. Many species produce essential oils with antiseptic and antimicrobial properties. Although comprehensive ethnobotanical records are limited, phytochemical studies have identified 15 compounds in this species, suggesting potential medicinal value.
General Description
The purplish-black, white-pulped fruit grows directly on the trunk of the tree, making it an example of ‘cauliflory’. It is eaten raw or used to make jellies, jams, juice or wine. The tree, of the family Myrtaceae, is native to the states of Rio de Janeiro, Minas Gerais, Goiás and São Paulo in Brazil. Related species in the genus Myrciaria, often referred to by the same common names, are native to Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, Peru and Bolivia. Jaboticaba tree is also grown as an ornamental and bonsai.
Family Context
The Myrtaceae family is primarily tropical and subtropical. Notable medicinal members include:
- Guava — 57 documented uses
- Melaleuca leucadendron — 49 documented uses
- Clove — 45 documented uses
- Blue Gum — 44 documented uses
Geographic Distribution
Jaboticaba has been recorded in 10 countries and territories worldwide, including Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, French Guiana, Honduras, and others.
Active Compounds
Phytochemical research has identified 15 compounds in this species, including a diverse array of phytochemical classes (see the Complete Chemical Inventory below for the full list).
The identified compounds include the following categories:
- Alkaloid: nitrogenous compounds with diverse pharmacological activities
Research Status
Although this species has documented phytochemical constituents, its ethnobotanical and clinical documentation remains incomplete. Systematic pharmacological studies are needed to validate the traditional uses attributed to this species.