Introduction: Esenbeckia and Raputia are genera of the family Rutaceae about which relevant ethnobotanical information has been reported. Such data have been obtained from phytochemical studies showing the number of secondary metabolites they produce and their molecular variability. Hence the importance of later studies about these genera, which are distributed in Central and South America, with the purpose of obtaining important information useful in the search for new therapeutic agents against microbial and other related diseases. Objectives: collect and analyze updated scientific information about the genera Esenbeckia and Raputia as natural sources of biologically active compounds which may be used in natural medicine due to their pharmacological potential. Methods: the analysis included scientific papers and books dealing with the chemical composition, traditional uses and pharmacological evaluation of medicinal plants, as well as other topics of interest to natural medicine research. Results: the information analyzed may be the starting point for new research demonstrating the effectiveness, safety and quality of phytotherapy. Review of the results obtained by other research teams makes it possible to establish rational scientific research strategies, thus contributing to the use of resources from universities, research centers and health institutions. Conclusions: according to the information found in the literature consulted, species of genera Esenbeckia and Raputia may be used for phytotherapeutic purposes, due, among other reasons, to the considerable number of identified secondary metabolites with proven pharmacological activity.