Acerola Cherry extract powder
Also known as: Acerola cherry, Barbados cherry, West Indian cherry, Malpighia emarginata
Overview
Acerola cherry extract powder is derived from the fruit of Malpighia emarginata, a tropical plant native to Central America, northern South America, Mexico, and the Caribbean. The extract is highly valued for its high vitamin C content, which can reach up to 4500 mg per 100 g of fresh fruit. It also contains other micronutrients such as beta-carotene, lutein, B vitamins, minerals, and polyphenolic compounds. Primarily, it is used as a natural source of vitamin C to prevent or treat vitamin C deficiency. Research also explores its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and potential anticancer properties. While research is growing, systematic reviews or meta-analyses specifically on acerola cherry extract powder as a supplement ingredient are limited. Most evidence is derived from in vitro, animal studies, and some human trials focusing on vitamin C bioavailability and antioxidant effects.
Benefits
Acerola cherry extract is a potent natural source of vitamin C, effectively preventing and treating vitamin C deficiency. Its high vitamin C and polyphenol content contribute to strong free radical scavenging and reduction of oxidative stress. Review evidence suggests acerola exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, potentially through modulation of inflammatory pathways. Preliminary data indicate possible anticancer benefits linked to antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms, though human clinical evidence is lacking. The fruit contains pectin, a prebiotic fiber that supports gut microbiota and digestive function. Individuals with vitamin C deficiency or increased oxidative stress may benefit most. Benefits related to vitamin C status can manifest within days to weeks of supplementation.
How it works
Vitamin C in acerola cherry extract acts as a cofactor in enzymatic reactions and as a potent antioxidant, neutralizing reactive oxygen species. Polyphenols contribute to anti-inflammatory effects by modulating signaling pathways such as NF-κB and cytokine production. It supports immune function, skin health, and collagen synthesis via vitamin C and modulates inflammatory responses. Vitamin C from acerola is highly bioavailable and may be better absorbed in the presence of synergistic bioflavonoids and organic acids present in the fruit matrix compared to synthetic ascorbic acid alone.
Side effects
Acerola cherry fruit and extracts are generally safe when consumed in amounts providing up to 2000 mg of vitamin C daily. Common side effects include gastrointestinal disturbances such as diarrhea at high doses of vitamin C. Uncommon side effects include allergic reactions, particularly in individuals with latex allergy due to cross-reactivity. There is potential interaction with cancer chemotherapy drugs (antitumor antibiotics) due to antioxidant effects possibly reducing drug efficacy. It may also affect estrogen metabolism, increasing effects and side effects of estrogens. Caution is advised in patients undergoing cancer treatment and those on estrogen therapy. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult healthcare providers, and individuals with latex allergy should avoid.
Dosage
For vitamin C deficiency prevention, at least 75-90 mg/day of vitamin C is typically required, which acerola can supply in small amounts. Supplements are often standardized to deliver 500-1000 mg vitamin C daily from acerola extract powder. Up to 2000 mg vitamin C daily is considered safe to avoid adverse effects. It can be taken any time with meals to enhance absorption; organic acids in acerola may improve mineral uptake. The powder form can be mixed in liquids, and fresh fruit or juice may provide additional synergistic nutrients. Co-ingestion with bioflavonoids and organic acids in acerola enhances vitamin C absorption.
FAQs
Is acerola cherry extract powder a good source of vitamin C?
Yes, it is one of the richest natural sources of vitamin C available.
Can it replace synthetic vitamin C supplements?
It may offer advantages due to additional bioactive compounds enhancing absorption and antioxidant effects.
Is it safe for long-term use?
Generally yes, within recommended vitamin C intake limits, it is considered safe for long-term use.
Does it help with colds?
Evidence is insufficient to confirm efficacy for common cold prevention or treatment beyond vitamin C supplementation benefits.
Are there any allergy concerns?
Yes, individuals with latex allergy may react to acerola, so caution is advised.
Research Sources
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-608/acerola – WebMD provides a clinical overview emphasizing acerola’s effectiveness in preventing vitamin C deficiency and notes safety concerns related to high vitamin C intake and drug interactions, especially with cancer and estrogen medications. It highlights the lack of strong evidence for other uses like cold treatment.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2304-8158/13/10/1476 – This MDPI study demonstrates acerola powder’s antioxidant capacity in preserving meat color and reducing oxidation, supporting its strong antioxidant potential. While not a human clinical trial, it provides evidence of acerola's antioxidant properties in a practical application.
- https://viridian-nutrition.com/en-us/blogs/nutrition-articles/the-health-benefits-of-acerola-cherry – Viridian Nutrition discusses the synergistic effects of acerola’s vitamin C with other nutrients enhancing absorption and biological activity, supporting its use as a natural vitamin C source. It highlights the benefits of consuming acerola as a whole food source of vitamin C due to these synergistic effects.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38396766/ – This recent review summarizes acerola’s rich vitamin C and polyphenol content and highlights its strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, with potential anticancer effects. The review notes the need for more human clinical trials to confirm these benefits.
- https://dsld.od.nih.gov/ingredient/Acerola%20Cherry%20fruit%20powder – The NIH's DailyMed entry provides basic information about Acerola Cherry fruit powder as an ingredient. It serves as a general reference point for identifying the substance and its potential uses.
