Acerola, also known as Malphigia glabra, M. biflora, M fallox, Barbados cherry, Antilles cherry, cereso, cerezo, health tree, and huesito, is a rare plant that grows is northern South America, Central America, Jamaica, and in the United States in California, Texas and Florida. Harvested while still green and unripe, before the fruit turns red on the vine, acerola spoils quickly--within five days--and must be consumed before it spoils. Acerola is easily recognizable by its dark green leaves and 15-foot shrub. Acerola fruit is considered a natural food, rather than an herb, though it purportedly has a variety of medicinal uses. Acerola is not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and significant medical research is needed to establish the safety and efficacy of acerola fruit and plant leaf as a remedy in treating any specific health conditions.
Acerola Dried Leaves
According to the “Tropical Plant Database” by naturopathic doctor Leslie Taylor, which is posted on the Rain Tree website, dried leaves and juice from the the acerola plant have been reportedly used by naturopaths and traditional healers in South America and Central America, particularly in Brazil, as a liver and kidney stimulant. It purportedly helps to improve hepatic and renal function and works as a cardiotonic to promote cardiac health. However, little is written about the benefits and safety of this plant, as it has yet to be medically proven.
Acerola Fruit Juice
Most notably, acerola is consumed as a juice, similar in popularity to orange juice in the United States. Touted as a super fruit containing powerful, superior antioxidant properties, acerola is considered by some to possess anti-aging properties. According to Leslie Taylor, acerola is higher in vitamin C than orange juice: one cup of orange juice contains 500 to 4000 parts per million (ppm) of vitamin C; acerola reportedly contains 16,000 to 172,000 ppm. Additionally, acerola provides two times the amount of magnesium, potassium and pantothenic acid as oranges. However, it is important to note that ingesting high levels of vitamin C may cause diarrhea. Though unproven, it is clear that acerola contains significant amounts of nutrients that may promote anti-aging, wound healing and possess anti-inflammatory qualities.
Acerola Cosmetics
Due to the notable antioxidant properties of acerola, it is used within the cosmetic industry for its anti-aging properties. Antioxidants are nutrients that destroy free radical cells in the body, particularly when applied to the skin, subsequently promoting a more youthful appearance. Acerola should be avoided in anyone allergic to latex because it may provoke latex skin allergies in prone individuals.
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