Evaluation of the cytotoxicity and phototoxicity of Caryocar brasiliense supercritical carbon dioxide extract.

Background: Caryocar brasiliense Camb (Pequi) is a typical Brazilian Cerrado fruit tree. Its fruit is used as a vitamin source for culinary purposes and as a source of oil for the manufacture of cosmetics. C.

Caryocar brasiliense supercritical CO2 extract possesses antimicrobial and antioxidant properties useful for personal care products.

Background: The cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries have an increasing interest in replacing synthetic antimicrobials in dermatological products due to increased microbial resistance to conventional antimicrobial agents. Pequi (Caryocar brasiliense) is a native fruit tree of the Brazilian Cerrado, specifically used in cosmetics, in the food industry, and for medicinal purposes. Leishmanicidal and antifungal activities have been reported previously.