Awesome Benefits and Effects of Acerola (Barbados Cherry)

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(Lat. Malpighia emarginata)

Other names: West Indies cherry, Barbados cherry, wild crepe myrtle, Malpighia glabra, Malpighia punicifolia, malpígie, seriz, or just simply ” acerola “

What is Acerola

Acerola cherry is a shrub-like plant that originated in tropical regions of the Western Hemisphere, most likely in southern Mexico and the Caribbean. We can also know it as tropical cherry.

Nowadays acerola has its place mainly as a decorative shrub in gardens and orchards in Hawaii and Florida. However, it has naturally spread to the South American continent and some subtropical regions of Asia over time.

Due to its excellent impact on the human body, it has been cultivated in recent years across almost the entire tropical belt. You can also find it in Australia, Ghana, the Canary Islands, and the very south of Florida. Acerola cherries grow on an evergreen, relatively massive bush.

The plant must wait about three years for the first fruits. Then it is rickly sprinkled with up to inch (3 cm) large red balls, incredibly similar to cherries. Under the skin there is a yellow flesh, thanks to which the powder has its golden color.

Acerola must be processed very quickly after harvest, as the fruit ferments within 3-5 days of harvest. Then it becomes inconsistent and loses its health benefits.

unripe green acerola probably contains twice as much vitamin C than ripe one.

Taste of Acerola

The taste of fresh acerola is indeed sour. It should be noted that according to the study of various fruit one cherry contains higher amounts of vitamin C than even oranges and strawberries. It’s only outdone by rosehips. Intense acidity is a bit discouraging from direct fruit consumption. Since acerola in fresh form is not available all around the world, you can most often find it as a part of fruit juices and syrups, capsules or powder.

However, the powder is the one that clearly wins in the field of benefits. It’s an easily absorbable source of all the important substances that acerola hide in itself. It retains all the vitamins and minerals, since it is made from freeze-dried fruits. It dissolves very easily, so it is ideal as a healthy and tasty ingredient in a variety of foods and beverages. But it will definitely not be ashamed even in the company of pure water. You can easily prepare a vitamin bomb with a very pleasant sour taste without the bitter finish typical of lemon. It will really excite and refresh you.

Forget about citrus fruits and make room on the shelf for organic quality Acerola cherry powder. The Caribbean recorder and superfruit in one is conquering the whole world with its refreshing taste and extraordinary contribution to our health.

Along with the high amount of vitamin C, acerola is also a very significant source of vitamin A, riboflavin (vitamin B-2), calcium, iron, niacin (vitamin B-3), phosphorus, thiamine (vitamin B-1).
Along with vitamin A, vitamin C is an antioxidant, helping prevent certain illnesses and free radical damage.

Acerola takes part not only as supplement, but also in cosmetic industry.

Benefits and Effects

strong antioxidant, protects of cells against oxidative stress,
promotes collagen production
contributes to the proper function of blood vessels,
supports the nervous system and the immune system, during and after intense physical exertion,
increases the absorption of iron (fights anemia),
contributes to proper metabolism,
important for energy production,
treatment of infections and inflammations,
prevents fatigue and exhaustion,
protects the skin and the body from aging,
protects against degenerative diseases,
strengthens immunity,
improves overall vision,
alleviates allergic reactions,
speeds up wound healing,
beneficial effect on the absorption of active polysaccharides through the digestive system.

acerola, acerola berries, barbados cherries

Usage and Dosage

There is no clinical research confirmation of a safe RDA of acerola. Because acerola contains mainly vitamin C, its RDA is generally referred to when used. Always follow the instruction on the package leaflets of specific products. Do not consume more than RDA when supplementing vitamin C in any form.

Acerola in the kitchen

In the Caribbean area and some South American countries, acerola is part of healthy eating habits. Indigenous people consume it mostly for breakfast in form of juice. You can add Acerola to various beverages, desserts, cake icings, ice-creams, puddings, fruit salads, jelly, marmalade, and wine.

Check out these delicious acerola recipes.

Yummy Acerola Bowl with Mango

Acerola Smoothie with Ginger – Delicious and Simple

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