Acerola cherry

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    Acerola cherry

    The Acerola cherry (Malpighia emarginata) is a tropical fruit that is native primarily to South and Central America. It is known for its high vitamin C content and is frequently used in dietary supplements. In traditional medicine, the Acerola cherry is used to strengthen the immune system and to treat cold symptoms.

    What benefits does the Acerola cherry offer?

    The Acerola cherry is one of the most vitamin C-rich fruits and is valued for the following potential health benefits:

    • Immune system strengthening: Thanks to its high vitamin C content, the Acerola cherry supports the function of the immune system and can thus help prevent various illnesses (1,2).
    • Antioxidant effect: The fruit contains antioxidants that fight free radicals and could thus protect cells from damage (1,2).
    • Skin health: Vitamin C is crucial for collagen production, which makes the Acerola cherry a popular ingredient in skin care products (3,4).
    • Anti-inflammatory properties: Studies suggest that the Acerola cherry exhibits anti-inflammatory properties (1,2).

    How does the Acerola cherry work?

    The health benefits of the Acerola cherry are mainly based on the nutrients it contains:

    • Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant that supports the immune system and can reduce inflammation (1,2,5).
    • Polyphenols: These secondary plant compounds, which studies have been able to link to antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects (6,7,8).

    Recommended intake

    The Acerola cherry is often consumed in the form of powders, juices, or capsules. The recommended dosage varies depending on the product and should follow the manufacturer's instructions.

    What risks does the use of the Acerola cherry involve?

    • Side effects: In high amounts, consumption can lead to gastrointestinal complaints such as diarrhea or abdominal pain.
    • Risks: People with an allergy to tropical fruits should avoid taking it.
    • Interactions: High-dose acerola products could influence the effect of medications.

    Conclusion

    The Acerola cherry impresses with its exceptionally high vitamin C content and its antioxidant properties, which can strengthen the immune system and contribute to overall health. It is a valuable addition to the diet, especially in stressful times or during colds. Nevertheless, it should be consumed in moderation to avoid side effects. When in doubt, a doctor should always be consulted to ensure that no side effects or interactions occur.

    Sources:

    1. Olędzki R, Harasym J. Acerola (Malpighia emarginata) Anti-Inflammatory Activity-A Review. Int J Mol Sci. 2024 Feb 8;25(4):2089. doi: 10.3390/ijms25042089. PMID: 38396766; PMCID: PMC10889565.
    2. Yu, Zhuoli & Zikela, Lalai & Li, Yanqing & Tong, Ling & Cao, Cuifeng & Han, Qiang. (2024). Acerola cherry (Malpighia emarginata) concentrate: separation and purification of vitamin C components and research on immune-regulating synergy. Journal of Food Measurement and Characterization. 18. 10.1007/s11694-024-02563-1.
    3. Boyera, N., Galey, I., & Bernard, B. A. (1998). Effect of vitamin C and its derivatives on collagen synthesis and cross-linking by normal human fibroblasts. International journal of cosmetic science, 20(3), 151–158. https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1467-2494.1998.171747.x
    4. Pullar JM, Carr AC, Vissers MCM. The Roles of Vitamin C in Skin Health. Nutrients. 2017 Aug 12;9(8):866. doi: 10.3390/nu9080866. PMID: 28805671; PMCID: PMC5579659.
    5. Gęgotek A, Skrzydlewska E. Antioxidative and Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Ascorbic Acid. Antioxidants (Basel). 2022 Oct 7;11(10):1993. doi: 10.3390/antiox11101993. PMID: 36290716; PMCID: PMC9598715.
    6. Hussain T, Tan B, Yin Y, Blachier F, Tossou MC, Rahu N. Oxidative Stress and Inflammation: What Polyphenols Can Do for Us? Oxid Med Cell Longev. 2016;2016:7432797. doi: 10.1155/2016/7432797. Epub 2016 Sep 22. PMID: 27738491; PMCID: PMC5055983.
    7. Yahfoufi N, Alsadi N, Jambi M, Matar C. The Immunomodulatory and Anti-Inflammatory Role of Polyphenols. Nutrients. 2018 Nov 2;10(11):1618. doi: 10.3390/nu10111618. PMID: 30400131; PMCID: PMC6266803.
    8. Liu, W., Cui, X., Zhong, Y., Ma, R., Liu, B., & Xia, Y. (2023). Phenolic metabolites as therapeutic in inflammation and neoplasms: Molecular pathways explaining their efficacy. Pharmacological research, 193, 106812. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106812