Abstract
The species Tapirira guianensis Aubl is utilized in traditional medicine for treating leprosy, diarrhea, and syphilis. The present study aims to assess the chemical composition as
well as the antioxidant, anticholinesterase, and antifungal potential of the essential oil extracted from the leaves of T. guianensis. The plant material was collected at Arco Estadual
do Cocó, with prior authorization from the Municipal Environment Department. The essential oil was obtained through the hydrodistillation process using a Clevenger-type apparatus, and
its constituents were analyzed via Gas Chromatography coupled to Mass Spectrometry. The antioxidant potential was determined by assessing free radicals, specifically DPPH (2,2-
diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) and ABTS+ (2,2-azinobis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)), using a 96-well plate. Antifungal activity was assessed following the protocol of the
Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute – M38-A (CLSI, 2018). Gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry revealed the presence of constituents in T. guianensis essential oil,
including eugenol (59.00%), α-copaene (0.40%), β-caryophyllene (29.91%), and α-humulene. The essential oil exhibited significant antioxidant and anticholinesterase potential in in vitro
studies. This study represents the first exploration of the biological potential of T. guianensis leaf essential oil, highlighting its considerable potential for future investigations within the
scientific community. Consequently, we can infer that T. guianensis essential oil serves as a source of antioxidant, anticholinesterase, and antifungal compounds, presenting promising
therapeutic potential in the management of Alzheimer's disease and Candida infections.
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