Extrait d'acérola (acide L-ascorbique)
Also known as: Malpighia emarginata, L-ascorbic acid, Acerola cherry, West Indian cherry, Barbados cherry, Extrait d’acérola, acerola extract, vitamin C supplement
Overview
Extrait d’acérola is an extract derived from the fruit of *Malpighia emarginata*, a plant native to Central America, northern South America, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Its primary active component is L-ascorbic acid (vitamin C), but it also contains other bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, carotenoids, and polyphenols. It is primarily used to prevent or treat vitamin C deficiency, support immune function, and as an antioxidant supplement. Acerola is known for its exceptionally high vitamin C content, often exceeding 1000 mg per 100 g of fruit. It also contains additional nutrients including beta-carotene, lutein, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pyridoxine, folic acid, and pantothenic acid. While there is robust evidence for vitamin C supplementation in general, high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) specifically on acerola extract are limited. Most studies focus on its composition rather than clinical outcomes. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses support vitamin C’s role in deficiency prevention.
Benefits
Acerola extract is highly effective for preventing and treating vitamin C deficiency due to its high L-ascorbic acid content. Vitamin C supplementation (from any source) at doses of 100–200 mg/day is sufficient to prevent deficiency in most adults. Limited evidence suggests antioxidant and immune-modulating effects, but these are not unique to acerola and are shared with other vitamin C sources. Acerola may be particularly useful for individuals with increased vitamin C requirements, such as smokers or those with limited dietary intake. For vitamin C deficiency, effect sizes are large and clinically significant. For other purported benefits, effect sizes are small to moderate and less consistent. Correction of deficiency can occur within days to weeks; other benefits may require ongoing supplementation.
How it works
L-ascorbic acid in acerola extract acts as a cofactor for enzymes involved in collagen synthesis, neurotransmitter production, and carnitine synthesis. It functions as a potent antioxidant, scavenging reactive oxygen species and regenerating other antioxidants. Acerola supports immune function, skin health, and wound healing. It is also involved in iron absorption and neurotransmitter synthesis. Vitamin C from acerola is well absorbed, with bioavailability similar to synthetic L-ascorbic acid. Absorption is dose-dependent and saturable, with maximal absorption at doses of 200–400 mg per day.
Side effects
Acerola extract is generally safe for most adults when used as directed. Rare side effects at typical doses; high doses (>2000 mg/day) may cause gastrointestinal upset, diarrhea, or nausea. Uncommon side effects include mild allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Rare side effects include severe allergic reactions, particularly in individuals with latex allergy (cross-reactivity possible). Acerola may interact with certain cancer medications (antitumor antibiotics) due to antioxidant effects; consult a healthcare provider if taking such medications. Contraindications include known allergy to acerola or vitamin C; caution is advised in individuals with a history of kidney stones. It is safe in pregnancy and lactation at typical doses; monitor in individuals with hemochromatosis or glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency.
Dosage
A minimum effective dose of 100 mg/day of vitamin C (from any source) is sufficient to prevent deficiency in most adults. Optimal dosage ranges are 200–400 mg/day for general health; higher doses may be used for specific indications but are not typically required. The maximum safe dose is 2000 mg/day; higher doses increase the risk of side effects. Acerola extract can be taken at any time of day; divided doses may improve absorption at higher intakes. Acerola extract is available as powder, capsule, or liquid; all forms are effective if standardized for vitamin C content. Absorption is saturable; doses above 400 mg at one time may result in reduced absorption efficiency.
FAQs
Is acerola extract better than synthetic vitamin C?
Acerola extract is a natural source of vitamin C but offers no unique benefits over synthetic vitamin C for most users. It may be preferred by those seeking whole-food supplements.
Is acerola extract safe?
Acerola extract is safe for most adults; avoid excessive doses to prevent gastrointestinal side effects.
When should I take acerola extract?
Acerola extract can be taken with or without food; there are no specific timing requirements.
What are the expected results from taking acerola extract?
The expected results include prevention or correction of vitamin C deficiency; other benefits (e.g., immune support) are possible but less well established.
Is acerola a superior source of vitamin C?
Acerola is not a “superior” source of vitamin C compared to synthetic forms in terms of bioavailability or efficacy for most health outcomes.
Research Sources
- https://www.scielo.br/j/babt/a/HYCNp6BcVnMfBdLng3yJssC/ – This systematic review examines the genetic diversity of acerola and its impact on fruit quality. It highlights that acerola genotypes vary widely in vitamin C content, soluble solids, and acidity. The review identifies specific cultivars like ‘Florida Sweet’ and ‘BRS Rubra’ as notable for their high sugar and low acid content, making them suitable for fresh consumption.
- https://www.alice.cnptia.embrapa.br/alice/bitstream/doc/1160925/1/Genetic-Diversity-on-Acerola-Quality-A-Systematic-Review.pdf – This systematic review focuses on the genetic diversity of acerola and its influence on fruit quality. The review notes significant variations in vitamin C content, soluble solids, and acidity among different acerola genotypes. Certain cultivars, such as ‘Florida Sweet’ and ‘BRS Rubra’, are highlighted for their high sugar and low acid content, making them ideal for fresh consumption.
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-608/acerola – This WebMD monograph provides an evidence-based overview of acerola. It states that acerola is effective for preventing and treating vitamin C deficiency. The monograph also notes that acerola does not offer unique benefits over other vitamin C sources for other conditions and is safe for most adults at recommended doses.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/13/2/615 – This Cochrane review provides a meta-analysis of vitamin C supplementation. It shows that vitamin C supplementation reduces the duration and severity of colds in some populations, but effect sizes are modest. The review also confirms that vitamin C is effective for preventing and treating deficiency.