See the health benefits of medicinal plants in teas Far beyond homemade teas and recipes passed down between generations, medicinal plants from the Amazon have increasingly aroused the interest of science. Easily found in Rondônia, species such as copaíba, andiroba, cat's claw and jambu are studied for their natural compounds and applications that can help promote health. ? Download the g1 app to see RO news in real time and for free According to Osvanda Silva de Moura, PhD in Botany and professor at the Federal University of Rondônia (Unir), medicinal plants are vegetables that have compounds capable of producing effects on the human body and that can be used both in traditional medicine and in the production of herbal medicines. "Medicinal plants are vegetables that contain active substances with therapeutic properties capable of preventing, alleviating or even treating certain health problems. They are the basis of natural and traditional medicine, and can be used in teas, compresses, poultices and even as raw material for herbal and industrialized medicines", he explains. These characteristics are naturally present in plants and are the result of the metabolism of the species itself. According to the researcher, when these compounds come into contact with the human body, they can trigger different biological responses. "The properties of medicinal plants come from the active ingredients, which are chemical compounds produced by the plant's metabolism. When they come into contact with the human body, these substances interact with cells, promoting analgesic, anti-inflammatory, calming, diuretic effects, among others", he states. Despite being widely known by the population, these species also arouse interest from the scientific community, which seeks to identify which compounds are present in each vegetable and how they act in the body. READ ALSO: TCE investigates suspected million-dollar fraud in the supply of city hall vehicles Operation uses convicts to erase gang graffiti in low-income housing Amazon brings together hundreds of medicinal species Osvanda explains that many species with therapeutic potential are found in Rondônia and that the Amazon functions as a true living pharmacy. Some of the varieties present in the region include: cat's claw; copaiba; andiroba; crajiru; corner; pracaxi; jambu; mastic; terramycin; lemongrass; espinheira-santa; mastruz; different varieties of boldo. In addition to native forest species, many specimens grown in backyards are also part of the routine of those looking for natural alternatives to alleviate symptoms and complement treatments. The expert highlights that each vegetable has its own compounds and, therefore, has different purposes. Açaí is also considered a medicinal plant Although it is mainly known as a food, açaí also has therapeutic properties that have been investigated by science. According to the researcher, the Euterpe precatoria species has at least 89 uses described in scientific studies, with applications that go beyond food. According to the professor, the fruit pulp is used in both human and veterinary medicine and has antioxidant action, helping to combat free radicals. Research also indicates potential benefits for the blood, cardiovascular, digestive and urinary systems. Copaíba, the 'antibiotic of the forest' Among the best-known species in the Amazon is copaíba, used for decades by traditional communities and increasingly studied by researchers. According to Osvanda, the oil extracted from the tree concentrates natural compounds associated with different therapeutic applications. "Copaiba is a powerful plant extract from the Amazon, very rich in sesquiterpenes and diterpenes, compounds associated with properties that can help treat inflammation, infections and healing processes", he explains. According to the professor, studies carried out by Brazilian universities have already demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, healing and antimicrobial activities related to the species. Andiroba, treasure of the Amazon Andiroba seedlings in Horto de Macapá Victor Vidigal/G1 Another species widely used in the region is andiroba, known both in popular medicine and in the cosmetic industry. According to the professor, the oil extracted from the tree has different applications and is usually used to relieve muscle pain, bruises, swelling and discomfort associated with rheumatism. Furthermore, it can contribute to skin regeneration by stimulating the natural production of collagen. "We shouldn't ingest andiroba oil, because it can cause damage to the stomach and liver", he warns. According to her, traditional use occurs mainly topically. The leaves can be used to prepare teas to alleviate some symptoms, provided there is adequate guidance. Cat's claw According to the researcher, cat's claw is often used to relieve joint pain, fight infections and strengthen the immune system. She explains that one of the effects observed is the stimulation of the production of white blood cells, responsible for the body's defense. Furthermore, the species helps protect cells against oxidative damage and reduce substances linked to inflammatory processes. "Consumption, generally done through tea, requires attention. Use is not recommended for pregnant or lactating women, people with autoimmune diseases or patients who have undergone organ transplants", he highlights. Jambu Jambu: leaves and flowers are used in Amazon cuisine Belém City Hall Known for causing a sensation of numbness in the mouth, jambu is also considered a medicinal plant. According to Osvanda, this effect is caused by the presence of a substance called spilantol. The composition