The genus Spondias, belonging to the Anacardiaceae family, comprises
about 18 species of trees and shrubs distributed in tropical and subtropical areas of
America, Africa, and Asia. These species have notable ethnobotanical and
pharmacological importance, as their fruits and other parts are used in food and
traditional medicine to treat ailments, such as fever, pain, inflammation, diabetes, and
digestive diseases. The species stand out for their rich chemical composition, which
includes secondary metabolites, such as flavonoids, phenolic compounds, terpenoids,
and essential oils. For example, S. mombin and S. purpurea contain phenolic acids
(ellagic, gallic, chlorogenic), quercetin, and carotenoids, conferring antioxidant, antiinflammatory, antimicrobial, and hepatoprotective properties. These characteristics
support their use in treatments for metabolic disorders, gastric ulcers, and
neurodegenerative diseases. In nutritional terms, fruits, such as cajá (S. mombin) and
umbu (S. tuberosa) stand out for their high content of minerals, fiber, vitamin C, and
bioactive compounds with antioxidant and lipid-regulating activity. On the other hand,
leaf and root extracts of S. tuberosa and S. pinnata have antimicrobial, antidiabetic, and
anti-fungal activities. In addition, S. dulcis and S. purpurea have antidiabetic potential
and photoprotective properties, which are useful in cosmetics. The genus Spondias is a
valuable resource for pharmacological and nutraceutical applications, with studies
confirming its safety and efficacy. Its bioactive composition highlights its usefulness as
a therapeutic and functional agent, expanding its applications in health and industry.
Keywords: Biological activity, Ethnomedicinal, Geographical distribution, Phytochemistry, Spondias, Spondias mombin.
