Acerola Extract Powder
Also known as: Acerola cherry, Barbados cherry, West Indian cherry, Acerola extract powder, Malpighia emarginata
Overview
Acerola extract powder is derived from the acerola fruit, a tropical fruit native to Central and South America and the Caribbean. It is primarily recognized for its exceptionally high vitamin C content, along with other phytonutrients such as carotenoids, phenolics, and minerals. Commonly used as a natural source of vitamin C to prevent or treat deficiency, it is also investigated for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and skin health benefits. While research is moderately mature with several clinical and preclinical studies, systematic reviews specifically on acerola extract powder as a supplement are limited. The available evidence generally supports its role in antioxidant activity and vitamin C supplementation, with emerging data on its benefits for skin health and inflammation.
Benefits
Acerola is one of the richest natural sources of vitamin C, with fresh fruit containing up to 4500 mg/100g. This high concentration supports its use in preventing or treating vitamin C deficiency, with some studies suggesting better absorption than synthetic ascorbic acid. For skin health, a clinical trial involving 55 healthy adults demonstrated that oral acerola-based products significantly improved skin hydration, collagen levels, elasticity, and brightness. Animal studies further support its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, showing reduced oxidative stress markers and increased antioxidant enzyme activities in UV-irradiated skin, suggesting protection against oxidative damage and potential skin cancer prevention. Acerola also contains pectin, a resistant fiber that may aid digestive function, though direct clinical evidence for this benefit is limited. A systematic review noted that genetic variability in acerola genotypes can influence its nutrient content and overall supplement quality.
How it works
The primary active component in acerola is ascorbic acid (vitamin C), which functions as a potent antioxidant by neutralizing reactive oxygen species and regenerating other antioxidants. Acerola also contains phenolic compounds and carotenoids that contribute to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Vitamin C is absorbed in the intestine via sodium-dependent vitamin C transporters, and some research suggests that vitamin C from acerola juice may enhance absorption compared to synthetic forms. Its antioxidant effects involve the upregulation of antioxidant enzyme activities like SOD and GPx. For skin protection, acerola modulates melanin synthesis through tyrosinase inhibition, contributing to its beneficial effects.
Side effects
Acerola is generally considered safe when consumed in typical dietary amounts or supplement doses providing up to 2000 mg of vitamin C daily. However, high doses may lead to gastrointestinal disturbances, such as diarrhea. Individuals susceptible to kidney stones may face an increased risk with high vitamin C intake from acerola. There is a potential for allergic reactions in people with latex allergy due to cross-reactivity. Insufficient data exist regarding its safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding, so caution is advised for these populations. It is important to adhere to recommended dosages to minimize the risk of adverse effects.
Dosage
There is no standardized dosing specifically established for acerola extract powder; dosage is typically based on its vitamin C content. Vitamin C absorption is most efficient up to approximately 100 mg/day, with efficiency declining at higher doses, such as 500 mg/day. When formulating supplements, it's important to consider vitamin C stability, as processing can lead to a 6–29% loss of ascorbic acid. Typical supplement doses aim to provide vitamin C amounts within recommended daily allowances or therapeutic ranges, often between 100–1000 mg/day of vitamin C equivalent. It is crucial not to exceed the upper limit of 2000 mg/day of vitamin C to avoid potential side effects.
FAQs
Is acerola better than synthetic vitamin C?
Some evidence suggests that vitamin C from acerola is better absorbed and retained by the body compared to synthetic forms of vitamin C.
Can acerola improve skin health?
Yes, clinical data indicate that acerola can improve skin hydration, elasticity, and provide antioxidant protection, contributing to overall skin health.
Are there risks of overdose with acerola?
Excessive vitamin C intake (over 2000 mg/day) from acerola may cause diarrhea and increase the risk of kidney stones in susceptible individuals.
Is acerola safe for pregnant women?
Safety data for acerola during pregnancy are insufficient. It is advisable to avoid medicinal doses and consult a healthcare professional.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10889565/ – This review, incorporating clinical and animal data, found that oral acerola improved skin hydration, collagen, and elasticity in healthy adults. It also reduced oxidative stress markers in UV-exposed mice, suggesting protective effects against skin damage.
- https://www.scielo.br/j/babt/a/HYCNp6BcVnMfBdLng3yJssC/ – This systematic review focused on acerola genotypes, revealing that genetic variability significantly influences key quality traits such as soluble solids, acidity, and pH, which can impact the fruit's nutritional content.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6098779/ – This narrative review, including absorption data from studies on healthy Japanese subjects, indicated that vitamin C from acerola is better absorbed than synthetic forms. It also highlighted that processing can lead to a reduction in the vitamin C content of acerola.
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-608/acerola – This WebMD summary provides an overview of acerola's safety profile, common uses, and potential side effects. It serves as a general informational source for consumers regarding the supplement.
- https://viridian-nutrition.com/en-us/blogs/nutrition-articles/the-health-benefits-of-acerola-cherry – This article discusses the general health benefits of acerola cherry, including its high vitamin C content and antioxidant properties, and its potential role in supporting overall wellness.
