Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of Bertholletia excelsa (HBK) bark extract

Bertholletia excelsa is native to the Amazon Rainforest and is popularly known as the Brazil nut. It has socioeconomic importance due its nuts being a great export product. There are few studies in the literature regarding the biotechnological potential of its bark, although it is used in folk medicine. The aim of this study was to determine the chemical constituents, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of B. excelsa bark extract (BEB). Twelve substances were identified by LC/MS/MS, and cytotoxicity tests were carried out, as well as analyses of nitric oxide production and elimination of free radicals. BEB caused cytoprotection against oxidative stress in macrophages, increased HMOX-1 expression, overcame the antioxidant effects of GPx-1 and reduced its expression and was able to inhibit leukocyte migration in use peritonitis. BEB efficiently attenuated oxidative stress due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and, as such, can be used as a safe and effective source of a natural herbal medicine.