Abstract
Brazilian pepper tree (Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi) from the Anacardiaceae family is native to Central and South America. In folk medicine, S. terebinthifolius has been used as a remedy for ulcers, respiratory problems, wounds, rheumatism, gout, diarrhea, skin ailments and arthritis, as well as to treat tumors and leprosy.
The Brazilian pepper tree has various biological properties and it is a source of many bioactive compounds. Several classes of compounds can be found in extracts obtained from these plants, such as terpenes and flavonoids.
Essential oils obtained by steam distillation or extraction by solvents from berries or leafs is rich in monoterpenes and shows interesting antioxidant activity. It has displayed good-to-very strong in vitro antifungal actions against numerous fungi, as well as Candida.
The essential oil and leaves have demonstrated in vitro antibacterial activity against numerous bacterial strains.