Brazil's Green Gold Rush

Imagine a country that houses approximately 20% of all the world's plant species within its borders—more than 53,000 documented native, naturalized, and cultivated species ¹ . A country where traditional knowledge of plant medicine stretches back centuries, blending Indigenous, African, and Portuguese healing practices into a rich therapeutic tapestry ² .

The global herbal medicine market was valued at a staggering USD 204.7 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 477 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 11.16% ¹ . Brazil's own herbal health market is projected to expand from USD 4.0 billion in 2024 to USD 15.83 billion by 2035 ¹ . Yet despite these promising figures, Brazil remains a minor player in the global phytopharmaceutical industry, with only 341 licensed herbal medicinal products currently on the market ⁴ .

Brazil's herbal market is at a fascinating crossroads. While the country's biodiversity is unparalleled, its herbal industry remains in its early stages compared to European markets ³ . The current regulatory environment has historically been described as excessively strict, with safety and efficacy requirements that have limited market growth ³ .

Market Projections

Source: Market research data ^{1 9}

Brazil's regulatory framework for herbal medicines has undergone significant transformation in recent years. The current system, established primarily by Anvisa Collegiate Board of Directors Resolution (RDC) number 26 in 2014, categorizes herbal medicinal products into two distinct classes ¹ :

This dual-track approach reflects Brazil's balanced regulatory philosophy—maintaining rigorous pharmaceutical standards while recognizing the value of traditional knowledge ¹ . The system continues to evolve, incorporating new scientific evidence while preserving traditional therapeutic practices within a structured regulatory environment.

Regulatory Timeline

Despite the regulatory and commercial challenges, Brazilian scientists have produced remarkable research demonstrating the therapeutic potential of native plants. A compelling example comes from recent investigations into the chemopreventive effects of native Brazilian plants on stomach cancer ⁶ .

Stomach cancer remains one of the deadliest cancers globally and is often diagnosed at advanced stages. In a comprehensive review published in May 2025 in the journal Oncoscience, researchers from the University of Campinas analyzed scientific studies from the past 25 years examining how native Brazilian plants may help prevent this disease ⁶ .

Brazilian Plants with Documented Chemopreventive Effects

Source: Research on native Brazilian plants with anti-stomach cancer properties ⁶

Açaí

Rich in polyphenols and anthocyanins with demonstrated antioxidant and anti-cancer properties in laboratory studies.

Cacao

Contains flavonoids and procyanidins that show anti-inflammatory effects and can induce cancer cell death.

Guava

Source of flavonoids and tannins with documented anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities.

The process of developing phytotherapeutic products begins with proper plant material preparation and extraction. Scientists use various methods to extract bioactive compounds from medicinal plants, with the choice of technique depending on the nature of the plant material, the solvent used, pH, temperature, and the intended use of the final product ⁸ .

Extraction Methods

Essential Research Tools in Phytopharmaceutical Development

Source: Phytopharmaceutical research methods and tools ⁸

The future development of Brazil's phytotherapics sector presents both significant opportunities and substantial challenges. On the positive side, Brazil's biodiversity-based biotechnology has enormous potential to generate economic value while supporting conservation efforts .

Strategic Priorities for Development