Barbatimao (Stryphnodendron adstringens) is a plant native to the Brazilian cerrado that is traditionally used to treat diseases. Its shells are rich in tannins which are substances that precipitate proteins and combine to form complex and resistant compounds. These compounds confer their pharmacological properties, among them, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, gastric mucosa protector and astringent action on wounds. In addition to the positive effects, according to studies, it can also have a toxic effect on the skin of animals depending on the way it is administered in the body. There are other plants rich in tannins and already used in the traditional way and also already actively applied in the cosmetics and alternative medicine industry, to treat gingivitis, stomach problems, wounds and inflammations of the most diverse origins. The use of barbatimao must still be explored and applied in different dosage forms, especially in topical use for wound healing, which is the main characteristic explored in studies already carried out. The use of essential oils is becoming more and more common, and their great differential is the form of extraction that can be explored positively by science. This form of extracting active compounds can be used in different plant compounds and is an alternative for exploring the properties of barbatimao.