Volatile Terpenoids in Myrtaceae Species: Chemical Structures and Applications

Terpenes are compounds derived from the secondary metabolism of plants, which act biologically in several functionalities, fighting several predators such as fungi and bacteria. Monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes are some of the main compounds that characterize the chemical composition of essential oils. However, this concentration depends on several factors, such as the type of ecosystem, climate, temperature, and other circumstances that can directly impact the chemical composition of essential oil. The Myrtaceae family is considered one of the main families of Brazilian flora and presents a wide diversity of species. Within this family, some species produce essential oils rich in terpenoids, which, besides being responsible for some biological activities, have contributed to the expansion and search for new natural bioactive substances present in such volatile substances. Given the above, this chapter presents a literature search with current studies that prove the biological and antioxidant activities of terpenoids present in essential oils of species of the Myrtaceae family.

Keywords: Biological Activities, Bioactive Compounds, Volatile Compounds