Ethnobotany and impact of extractive activity on Sideroxylon obtusifolium (Roem. & Schult.) TD Penn. in a semiarid area of northeastern Brazil

Abstract

Currently, the term most used when referring to natural products is sustainability, which associates information from traditional knowledge with the promotion of environmental conservation. The present study was carried out in the Tapera Community, a semiarid region of Paraíba, to record and analyze the uses, traditional knowledge and extraction pressure suffered by Sideroxylon obtusifolium, commonly known as jungleplum. Householders of 69.69% of the residences were interviewed to obtain the information about use and knowledge. The extraction pressure was evaluated through two techniques: evaluation of the local availability of the species (through the 24-h walk) and evaluation of bark extraction pressure (extraction measurements). The jungleplum is used by the residents mainly for medicinal purposes, the bark is the most cited part and infusion is the most common form of preparation. A total of 88 trees were recorded, with 19 having extraction marks. The young specimens are part of the bark extraction records; however, near the residences, the extractions were carried out primarily on adult trees. Predatory activities were significantly reduced compared to previous data, as a result of the partnership established (residents and Cariri EPA–Lajedo do Pai Mateus), increased incentives from the Federal Government, and increased inspections in the areas around the Conservation Unit.