Ichthyofauna Used in Traditional Medicine in Brazil

Fish represent the group of vertebrates with the largest number of species and the largest geographic distribution; they are also used in different ways by modern civilizations. The goal of this study was to compile the current knowledge on the use of ichthyofauna in zootherapeutic practices in Brazil, including ecological and conservational commentary on the species recorded. We recorded a total of 85 species (44 fresh-water species and 41 salt-water species) used for medicinal purposes in Brazil. The three most commonly cited species were Hoplias malabaricus, Hippocampus reidi, and Electrophorus electricus. In terms of conservation status, 65% of species are in the “not evaluated” category, and 14% are in the “insufficient data” category. Three species are in the “vulnerable” category: Atlantoraja cyclophora, Balistes vetula, and Hippocampus erectus. Currently, we cannot avoid considering human pressure on the population dynamics of these species, which is an essential variable for the conservation of the species and the ecosystems in which they live and for the perpetuation of traditional medical practices

Correlation between bioacumulated phytocompounds and bioactivities in <em>Nasutitermes macrocephalus</em> (Silvestri, 1903) (Isoptera: Termitidae) and its nest extracts against multi-resistant bacterial strains

583-587Termites are among the species most commonly used in folk medicine in various locations worldwide. Of these, Nasutitermes macrocephalus is often used in the treatment of various diseases that affect humans, however, with no supporting scientific evidence. From this perspective, this study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial activity and modulating effect of bacterial resistance of N. macrocephalus and its nest extract. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of antimicrobial agents used in clinical practice is determined in the presence and absence of the ethanol extract of N. macrocephalus and its nest in a subinhibitory concentration (125 &micro;g/mL) against multi-resistant strains of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. The extract showed no significant antimicrobial activity (MIC &gt; 1000 &micro;g/mL). However, there was a considerable reduction in MIC of antimicrobials when combined with the extract, especially erythromycin, ampicillin and gentamicin. The results indicate that N. macrocephalus and its nest are a promising source of substances that can be used in combating multi-drug-resistant bacteria. Additional studies are needed to identify the active components responsible for such activity