Biological properties of bioactive compounds from the fruit and leaves of the genipap tree (Genipa americana L.): A systematic review

Genipa americana L. is widely distributed in diverse phytogeographic domains, from Mexico to Argentina. Pulp, seeds and bark of genipap have biological properties with therapeutic potential for the treatment of several pathologies. The nutritional composition of genipap, the fruit of G. americana L. favors its use for having high contents of bioactive compounds, fibers and vitamins. The aim of this systematic review was to provide an overview of the bioactive compounds of G. americana L. and their effects in human, animal, and in vitro assays. Nine studies met the inclusion criteria, 2 in humans, 4 in animals, and 3 in biological assays. The main results of the review showed that the metabolites excreted in human urine after consumption of genipap juice were iridoids, medium chain fatty acids and hydroxycinnamic acids. The leaf extract of G. americana L. showed relevant antiplatelet, anticoagulant and antithrombotic activity, besides antioxidant, anticonvulsant and antiparasitic effects. The extracts of genipap seeds and peels showed antioxidant inhibition of acetylcholinesterase and tyrosinase. The extract of the fruit pulp showed high inhibitory enzymatic activity α-glucosidase, α-amylase, lipase and antiglycation activity, anti-diabetic potential. It was concluded that the biological properties of the fruit and its fractions show benefits of its consumption and possibilities for the development of new products.