Natures Vitamin C

ACEROLA (Malpighia emarginata)

is a significant source of vitamin C in the NATURAL form of ascorbic acid, containing as much as 1000 to 4500 milligrams per 100 grams of edible fruit. Vitamin C is an essential dietary nutrient, playing a role in immune system health. It is also important in the synthesis of collagen, a structural component of bone, skin and blood vessels as well as the synthesis of brain chemicals involved in mood regulation. Vitamin C content is highest in the less ripened fruit and after harvest the percent of vitamin C can be preserved by freezing the plant.

Vitamin A is another important nutrient found in the acerola, yielding as much as a bundle of full-sized carrots, or approximately 3400 to 12,500 international units per 100 grams of fruit. Vitamin A plays a role in visual health, normal growth and ongoing development, red blood cell production and it protects the immune system.

Additional micronutrients found to a lesser degree in the fruit include several B-vitamins, calcium, iron, potassium and magnesium. Each of which is necessary in a normal diet. Protein, fiber and fatty acids, important macronutrients of the diet, are also in the fruit.

Acerola supplements are available as powder extract to be mixed into water, fruit or vegetable juices. Topical cream formulations also exist for direct skin application to enhance elasticity and collagen production or for use as an antifungal remedy. No standard dosing exists for acerola supplements as dosing is dependent upon several variables including age, current health and pre-existing conditions. Common dosing is one level teaspoon, or 3.6 grams, of powder mixed with a glass of water and taken three to five times a week. Some manufacturers might also market acerola in oral capsule form as vitamin C.

It is popular as an alternative supplement to ease symptoms of the common cold, mainly because of its high vitamin C content. Supplements are also touted as energy boosters for athletic endurance, as a means for minimizing symptoms of depression and to relieve infections of the gum and tooth.

Clinical evidence suggests that the high antioxidant properties, which comes from the vitamins A and C, of acerola might serve as a significant element in the regular diet, as evidenced by several published research studies. Research is ongoing to determine its exact benefits and potential long term adverse effects but it sounds good to me!