Acerola

Description

Acerola, also known as the Barbados cherry or West Indian cherry, is a small, vibrant red fruit from the shrub *Malpighia emarginata* or *Malpighia glabra*, native to tropical regions of the Western Hemisphere. Historically, it has been consumed by indigenous populations for its nutritional value and traditional medicinal properties, making it a revered natural superfood. This fruit is particularly distinguished by its extraordinary concentration of Vitamin C, often surpassing that found in oranges and other common citrus fruits. Beyond its high Vitamin C content, Acerola is a rich source of other vital nutrients, including various B vitamins (Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Folate), Vitamin A (as beta-carotene), and essential minerals such as magnesium, potassium, iron, calcium, and zinc. Furthermore, Acerola is packed with powerful antioxidants, including anthocyanins, flavonoids, and carotenoids like beta-carotene, which collectively contribute to its robust health-promoting effects. These compounds work synergistically to combat oxidative stress, support healthy immune responses, aid in collagen production for skin health, and contribute to overall vitality and well-being.

Sources
Acerola fruit (Malpighia emarginata)Tropical regions of the Western Hemisphere
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Timing & Intake
AnytimeWith foodTake with Food to minimize potential digestive upset and enhance absorption.
Can be taken anytime during the day, preferably with a meal to improve tolerability and nutrient absorption.
Optimal Dosage
Minimum500 mg
Maximum1500 mg
Safety & Toxicity
Interactions

Positive Interactions

Vitamin C
Acerola is an exceptionally rich natural source of Vitamin C, making it a highly bioavailable form of this essential nutrient.
Iron
The high Vitamin C content in Acerola significantly enhances the absorption of non-heme iron from plant-based sources.
carotenoids
Acerola naturally contains various carotenoids, which are powerful antioxidants that work synergistically with Vitamin C.
Astaxanthin
Acerola's diverse carotenoid profile contributes to a broad antioxidant spectrum, potentially complementing Astaxanthin's effects.
Lycopene
Acerola's natural carotenoids can work in concert with Lycopene for enhanced antioxidant protection against free radical damage.
Vitamin A
Acerola contains Vitamin A precursors (beta-carotene), which synergize with other antioxidants for vision and immune health.
Folate
Acerola provides natural Folate, contributing to its overall nutritional value and metabolic support.
Thiamin
Acerola contains natural Thiamin, an important B vitamin for energy metabolism.
Riboflavin
Acerola supplies natural Riboflavin, contributing to cellular energy production and antioxidant defense.
Niacin
Acerola contains natural Niacin, which plays a role in energy metabolism and DNA repair.
Vitamin B6
Acerola provides natural Vitamin B6, essential for amino acid metabolism and neurotransmitter synthesis.
Magnesium
Acerola contains natural Magnesium, an essential mineral involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body.
Potassium
Acerola is a natural source of Potassium, important for fluid balance and nerve function.
Calcium
Acerola contains natural Calcium, contributing to bone health and other physiological processes.
Zinc
Acerola provides natural Zinc, an important mineral for immune function and enzyme activity.
Flavonoid
Acerola is rich in various flavonoids, which are potent antioxidants that enhance its protective and anti-inflammatory effects.

Negative Interactions

Iron
For individuals with hemochromatosis or other iron overload conditions, the high Vitamin C content in Acerola could undesirably increase iron absorption, potentially worsening the condition.
Product stats
Price per product
Average$32.52
Median$28.10
Price per serving
Average$1.01
Median$1.04
Price per 10 mg
Average$0.15
Median$0.07
Price distribution
Price per serving distribution
Price per 10 mg
Reference amount: 10 mg
Forms
Paired ingredients
Ingredient forms
Vitamin C (3)93
Acerola cherries (Malpighia emarginata) are renowned as one of the richest natural sources of Vitamin C, often containing significantly higher concentrations than citrus fruits. This naturally occurring Vitamin C is found within a complex matrix that includes synergistic phytonutrients such as anthocyanins, flavonoids, and carotenoids. These additional compounds may enhance the absorption, utilization, and overall antioxidant effects of Vitamin C compared to isolated synthetic ascorbic acid. Vitamin C is an essential nutrient vital for numerous bodily functions, including supporting immune health, collagen synthesis for skin and connective tissues, and providing powerful antioxidant protection against free radical damage.
Pros
  • Exceptional natural source of Vitamin C, often surpassing synthetic forms in potency per serving.
  • Contains synergistic phytonutrients (e.g., flavonoids, anthocyanins) that may enhance bioavailability and antioxidant activity.
  • Supports robust immune system function.
  • Crucial for collagen formation, promoting healthy skin, hair, and nails.
  • Acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting cells from oxidative stress.
  • Generally well-tolerated and less likely to cause digestive upset than some synthetic forms at high doses.
Cons
  • May be more expensive than synthetic ascorbic acid supplements.
  • Potency can vary depending on the specific acerola extract and processing methods.
  • Overconsumption in very high doses may still lead to mild digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals.
Per product
Avg$47.29
Med$39.99
Per serving
Avg$0.44
Med$0.44
Per 100 mg
Avg$0.37
Med$0.37
Price distribution