Acerola Benefits

Acerola belongs to the Malpighia species, its common names being Antilles Cherry, West Indian Cherry, Barbados Cherry and Cereso. This fruit is said to have been originated in Yucatan. But nowadays, it grows abundantly in the lower part of North America including Mexico, Texas, the Caribbean and Jamaica, South America and Central America. It is an evergreen deciduous tropical shrub and grows up to 15 feet. They have medicinal values and are an excellent source of vitamin C. Being a rich source of vitamin C, its benefits are innumerable. It is a small, red, cherry-like fruit which has three lobes and three seeds. The berries are usually round or a little elongated, and have a juicy, bitter-sweet pulp and a very thin skin. These fruits ripen within 25 days, but it has been observed that their nutrient value is highest before they ripen.

Health Benefits of Acerola

The unripe acerola fruit contains vitamin C in incredibly large amounts. Along with vitamin C, it also contains mineral salts, calcium, phosphorous, iron, carotene, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin and proteins. It is said to strengthen the immune system. The presence of these substances makes it rich in anti-oxidant activity. It also helps fight diseases caused by bacteria, fungi and viruses. It promotes anti-aging effects by eliminating the harmful effects of free radicals. Free radicals cause oxidative damage to the body, which results in the weakening of the immune system. It has also been used in the treatment of flu and colds, pulmonary disturbances, liver illnesses and gallbladder diseases. It is seen that when used in heavy doses, acerola is effective on viral hepatitis, varicella as well as poliomyelitis. It is also said to be used as an effective measure to prevent cancer, and thus patients are advised to have it after the treatment. This fruit also helps in reducing herpes symptoms like pain, redness and swelling, as it helps to reduce mucus, which is one of the causes for the herpes virus to multiply. It is also useful in the prevention of Parkinson's disease as it has a balancing effect on the blood fat level and intra-ocular pressure. As the fruit ripens, its levels of vitamin C reduce but flavonoids increase, which have attributes of antioxidants. Acerola benefits can be reaped as it is predominantly used because of its antiseptic, anti-aging and immunity increasing properties.

Acerola Extract

It is said that the acerola extract contains 32 times more vitamin C as compared to orange juice! It is an excellent remedy for discoloration of skin and helps in natural control of blood sugar. If a child is unable to take the high acid content of oranges, acerola extract can be added to apple juice, to enrich it with vitamin C. It can also help in reducing the blood sugar levels. Thus, its benefits can be seen in bringing blood sugar level to a normal range when used as a food supplement. Its extracts are also used in beauty products like bleaches and skin whitening products. It has properties that help prevent skin discoloration.

Acerola has definitely come a long way from being an obscure tropical fruit. The awareness about acerola benefits are increasing. So each time you relish it, keep in mind that it is not just any other fruit!