Acerola contains more vitamin C than kiwi, orange, lemon and grapefruit. Not to mention its many nutritional and medicinal virtues.
Let's find out more about this ingredient, renowned the world over for its benefits.
What is acerola?
Acerola is a tree that produces a cherry-like fruit. That's why it's also known as Barbados cherry or West Indian cherry. Either way, acerola fruit promises both nutritional and dietary benefits.
This shrub can grow up to 15 metres long. Acerola has pink flowers, and its fruit is bright red.
The fruit has a juicy pulp. It has remarkable nutritional value. This little cherry can help you overcome a variety of ailments. But first, let's shed some light on its origins.
Where does acerola come from?
Acerola is native to South America. The virtues of acerola have long been known to many Amazonian peoples.
Let's not forget that acerola extracts are found in the formulation of various therapeutic products. Many dietary supplements also use acerola as their main ingredient. This is mainly because acerola has interesting properties.
What are the benefits of acerola?
Acerola provides vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and more. Here are just a few benefits!
Concentrated vitamin C
The Barbados cherry is one of the fruits with the highest vitamin C content. In 100 g of acerola, you'll find almost 1678 mg of vitamin C. This is far higher than in kiwifruit and oranges. So you can count on acerola to fill up on vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid.
This vitamin is a powerful antioxidant. It counteracts the damage caused by free radicals. Vitamin C is also known to combat fatigue.
Acerola also provides other vitamins. These include vitamin A and certain B-group vitamins (B1, B2, B3).
An ally in the fight against infection
Infections are rife in all seasons. To fight them effectively, it's best to surround yourself with the right allies. Fortunately, acerola is a good companion against infections.
Acerola helps eliminate toxins from the body through its action on the liver. Its action is also aimed at combating liver infections. Acerola also plays a role in cardiovascular health, protecting blood vessels from bad cholesterol.
A source of minerals
Minerals play a major role in metabolism. Our bodies need them constantly. The advantage of acerola is that it provides several minerals. We're talking here about its remineralizing action. Which minerals are likely to supply the cells?
Let's start with minerals such as calcium and phosphorus. Calcium and phosphorus are essential for bone formation and solidification. An excellent supply of calcium and phosphorus is therefore a priority for anyone with brittle bones.
