Pharmacological Applications of Fava d'anta: A Patent Review

A significant portion of the population in low-income countries relies on medicinal plants for healthcare. Fava d'anta is an important species in Brazil due to its bioactive compounds like quercetin and rutin. These compounds have various pharmaceutical applications, but the sustainability of their exploitation is challenged by overharvesting, necessitating sustainable management practices and further biotechnological advancements. The study conducted a comprehensive review of fava d'anta patents and their applications in various pharmacological activities, which are crucial for the development of new medicines and formulations. Patents were searched in four specialized patent databases: The United States Patent and Trademark Office, the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), Espacenet and the National Institute of Industrial Property (INPI). A total of 109 patents were identified through document collection, with 26 patents meeting the inclusion criteria. The analysis revealed a global concentration of innovation in regions like Europe and the United States. Fava d'anta has demonstrated a wide range of therapeutic properties, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, largely attributed to polyphenols. These bioactive components have shown potential in diverse applications, from nutraceuticals to cosmetics. Patent registrations highlight the significant potential of Dimorphandra species for phytoproducts, particularly due to compounds like quercetin and rutin, but further studies are needed to explore their mechanisms of action and enhance technological applications, especially in cosmetics.