Malpighia glabra, commonly referred to as acerola, is a small shrub native to the West Indies. It bears a bright red fruit that contains several seeds and 80 percent juice. The fruit is consumed as a food and juice and sold in supplement form for a variety of health-promoting purposes.
Nutritional Content
Acerola fruit has astringent properties, and it contains the minerals calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus and potassium. Phyllis Balch states in her book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing" that acerola also contains vitamins A, B-1, B-2, B-3, B-5, B-6 and C. Acerola is a potent antioxidant, which helps prevent free radical induced damage to your cells and DNA. Phytochemicals are compounds found in plants that help prevent and treat disease in humans, and acerola also contains the phytochemicals beta-carotene and bioflavonoids.
Purported Benefits
According to Drugs.com, acerola fruit has been traditionally used to treat dysentery, diarrhea and liver disorders. Acerola supplements are purported to support the adrenal glands and help fight stress, enhance liver function, promote detoxification, treat asthma, angina and glaucoma and prevent and treat coronary artery disease. Acerola is also used to help boost the immune system and prevent infections. Herbs2000.com states that acerola can help to both prevent and treat colds, flu, herpes and fevers. However, no scientific studies have been conducted to confirm the efficacy of any of these purported uses.
Vitamin C Related Benefits
Acerola is one of the richest natural sources of vitamin C, and its vitamin C content far exceeds that found in peeled oranges. Many vitamin C supplements that are derived from natural sources, as opposed to synthetically created, are derived from acerola fruit. The vitamin C found in acerola works as a natural anti-histamine and may help reduce allergy symptoms. In addition, Herbs2000.com states that acerola supplements have chelating properties, helping to remove heavy metals from the body and to protect the body from the adverse affects of environmental pollutants. Drugs.com states that due to the vitamin C content, acerola supplements can help build collagen cells, which are responsible for skin elasticity and youthful looking skin. Collagen is also a major constituent of connective tissue, and acerola may help support healthy cartilage and bones.
Precautions
Acerola supplements are readily excreted from the body and generally are considered safe. In addition, there are no documented drug interactions with acerola supplements. However, large doses may produce gastrointestinal distress, and prolonged massive doses may predispose you to kidney stones. As with any supplement, talk to your health-care practitioner before taking acerola supplements.
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis Balch; 2003
- Drugs.com: Acerola
- Herbs2000.com: Acerola
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