A Comprehensive Study on the Chemical Characterization and Neuroprotective Evaluation of Pracaxi Nuts Extracts Obtained by a Sustainable Approach

Deep in the Amazon, a humble nut holds secrets that could protect your brain—and we're only just beginning to unlock them.

The pracaxi nut, from the Amazonian tree Pentaclethra macroloba, has long been known for its health-promoting oils. But its other components? Largely a mystery—until now. Scientists took a green approach, using supercritical CO2 to extract the oil, then re-extracted the leftover cake with pressurized liquids, following a biorefinery model. Through response surface methodology, they pinpointed two optimal conditions: 80% ethanol and 12.5% ethanol at 180°C. These extracts were then tested for neuroprotective activity. The chemical analysis revealed triterpenoid saponins and spermidine phenolamides—compounds never before reported in pracaxi nuts. This suggests that the by-products of pracaxi oil extraction are a treasure trove of bioactive molecules with potential to shield the brain. A sustainable path, from rainforest to lab, points toward new neuroprotective therapies.

Key Points

• SFE-CO2 extracts oil; residue re-extracted via biorefinery.
• Optimum conditions: 80% and 12.5% ethanol at 180°C.
• New compounds: triterpenoid saponins and spermidine phenolamides.