Acerola Benefits: Vitamin C-Packed Super Food

Acerola benefits: When the Spaniards first arrived in the Caribbean Islands in the 16^th century, they found a tree with fruit similar to the azarole cultivated in Europe. They named it Acerola. Those explorers had no idea then that the Caribbean acerola cherry is much richer in vitamin C than the European fruit.

Azarole is a fruit of a bush or tree of the botanical family Rosaceae (Crataegus azarolus L.). It is similar to the cherry, and as the acerola described here, it is very rich in vitamin C (275 mg/100 g).

Scientific Facts

Acerola Related Species: Malpighia punicifolia L.

1. Synonyms: Spanish pine, Neapolitan medlar
2. French: Angerolle, angerolier
3. Spanish: Acerola
4. German: Acerola-kirsche
5. Description: Fruit of ‘Malpighia glabra’ L., a tree of the botanical family Malpighiaceae
6. Habitat: The acerola is native to the Caribbean region. Today, it is found throughout Central America, from Mexico to Venezuela.

Acerola Benefits: Medicinal Properties and Indication

The acerola was little appreciated until 1946 when some investigators at the University of Puerto Rico analyzed its vitamin C content. They declared that they had discovered nature’s richest source of this vitamin (up to 2,520 mg/100 g, according to the variety, in other words, more than 50 times that of lemons.

In addition to vitamin C, acerolas contain a whole series of natural substances that accompany them and potentiate their action: organic acids such as malic acid and flavonoids such as rutin and hesperidin.

According to Schneider, elevated doses of vitamin C increase interferon production, a protein that inhibits the proliferation of viruses, stimulates the immune system and halts the growth of tumoral cells.

Because of these acerola benefits, the fruit is highly recommended for all infectious diseases, particularly those of viral origin, such as the flu, colds, etc. And as a complement to the treatment and prevention of cancer.

Acerola Preparation

1. Raw: This fruit must be completely ripe before it can be eaten, and even then, it is quite sour.
2. Juice: Acerola juice is usually blended with other, sweeter fruit juices. A delicious high-vitamin C beverage is an acerola smoothie.
3. Commercial use: Acerola pulp is used to make jellies and gelatin desserts. It is also dried and powdered. All of these industrial applications are rich in vitamin C.

DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. You should not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, you should talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.

REFERENCES

1. George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Foods and Their Healing Power.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Foods and Their Healing Power. Trans. Annette Melgosa. Vol. 2. Chai Wan: Editorial Safeliz, 2005. 367. Print.
2. Dr. Axe: This website offers comprehensive information on the nutritional facts, health benefits, and uses of Acerola cherries, including their high vitamin C content and other antioxidants like vitamin A, as well as minerals such as magnesium and potassium. It also discusses various health benefits, such as supporting the immune system, improving digestive and metabolic health, and protecting cognitive function. Dr. Axe on Acerola Cherry Benefits