According to the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, or NMCD, acerola berries are one of the richest sources of natural vitamin C, containing 1,000 to 2,330 mg of vitamin C per 100 g of fruit. Acerola also contains other nutrients such as vitamin A, thiamine, riboflavin and niacin. It is used medicinally for a wide variety of ailments, but there is insufficient scientific information to determine efficacy, so consult with your doctor before using acerola medicinally.
Identification and Dosing
Acerola is also called acerola cherry, West Indian cherry, Barbados cherry, Antilles cherry, Puerto Rican cherry, cereso and semeruco, among other names. Presently, there is not enough evidence from human studies to guide dosing recommendations.
Uses
Acerola is used for preventing and treating scurvy, a disease caused by vitamin C deficiency. It is also used for preventing heart disease, hardening of the arteries or atherosclerosis, blood clotting and cancer. Acerola is used to manage depression, hepatitis and collagen disease. Other uses include treating the common cold, hay fever, gum infections, dysentery, diarrhea, fever, pressure sores, tooth decay and retinal bleeding. Some use acerola to enhance physical endurance.
Effectiveness
According to the NMCD, acerola is likely effective for preventing scurvy. Presently there are not enough human research studies to determine the effectiveness of acerola for any other health problem.
Considerations
According to the NMCD, acerola is considered to be generally safe for most adults. However, it can cause some side effects such as stomach upset, nausea, diarrhea, tiredness and insomnia. Larger doses of acerola may cause diarrhea and increase the chance of developing kidney stones. Acerola should be taken cautiously in the presence of gout and kidney stones. Avoid acerola during pregnancy and lactation.
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