Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry, and Pharmacological Potential of Myroxylon peruiferum L.F and Myroxylon balsamum (L.) Harms in Bolivia

Abstract

Considering the systemic toxicity and limited efficacy associated with conventional antidiabetic medications, there is an increasing demand for plant-based therapeutic alternatives. Herbal medicines have gained significant global attention due to their natural origin and reduced side effects. South American countries, including Bolivia, have a rich ethnobotanical heritage that plays a fundamental role in traditional medicine. This review focuses on Myroxylon peruiferum L.f and Myroxylon balsamum (L.) Harms, two medicinal species from the Fabaceae family widely used in Bolivia for the treatment of malaria, respiratory infections (including bronchitis and laryngitis), rheumatism, and other inflammatory conditions. The study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of their geographical distribution, ethnobotanical relevance, phytochemical composition, and pharmacological properties, with an emphasis on their potential for future scientific investigation, sustainable collection, and commercialization. Both species are rich in bioactive secondary metabolites, including flavonoids, phenolics, fatty acids, aldehydes, and terpenoids, which contribute to their diverse biological activities. Previous in vitro and in vivo studies have reported their antiseptic, antibacterial, antimicrobial, antifungal, antimalarial, antileishmanial (Leishmania amazonensis), and antiviral properties. These pharmacological effects are attributed primarily to compounds present in their leaves, bark, wood, and fruits. Despite promising therapeutic potential, a substantial gap remains between traditional ethnomedicinal knowledge and pharmacological research. Further interdisciplinary studies integrating ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, and clinical research are essential to validate the efficacy and safety of these species. This review underscores the need for scientific exploration of Bolivian medicinal plants, not only to support traditional healthcare practices but also to promote the development of bioactive natural products with economic and industrial significance.