Acerola Berry - Malpighia emarginata
The fruit is edible and widely consumed in the species' native area, and is cultivated elsewhere for its high vitamin C content. There are 1677.6 mg of vitamin C in 100 g of fruit. although it also contains vitamins A, B1, B2 and B3 as well as carotenoids and bioflavonoids which provide very important nutritive value and a possible use as an antioxidant.
A comparative analysis of antioxidant potency among a variety of frozen juice pulps was carried out, including the acerola fruit. Among the 11 fruit pulps tested, acerola was the highest-scoring domestic fruit, meaning it had the most antioxidant potency, with a Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity score of 53.2 mg.
After three years, trees produce significant numbers of bright red drupes 1–3 cm (0.39–1.18 in) in diameter with a mass of 3–5 g (0.11–0.18 oz). Drupes are in pairs or groups of three, and each contains three triangular seeds. The drupes are juicy and very high in vitamin C (3-46 g/kg) and other nutrients. They are divided into three obscure lobes and are usually acidic to subacidic, giving them a sour taste, but may be sweet if grown well. While the nutrient composition depends on the strain and environmental conditions, the most common components of acerola and their concentration ranges, per 100 g, are: proteins (2.1-8.0 g), lipids (2.3-8.0 g), carbohydrates (35.7-78 g), calcium (117 mg), phosphorus (171 mg), iron (2.4 mg), pyridoxine (87 mg), riboflavin (0.7 mg), thiamine (0.2 mg), water (906-920 g) and dietary fibre (30 g).
Health Benefits:
Most of the skin benefits associated with acerola comes from its high vitamin C concentration.
These include:
- Antioxidant action to protect against free radical damage that can accelerate skin aging
- Ability to even skin tone and brighten skin;
- Boosting production of collagen and elastin.
- Help diarrhea, dysentery, and liver issues, as well as combat free radicals and strengthen the immune system.
Shelf life of 18 months.When properly stored. Storage: store in cool and dry place, keep away from strong light and heat.
DISCLAIMER - The information is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not
intended to prescribe, or treat. It is not intended to be a substitute for a health care provider's consultation.
