Acerola Cherries
The acerola cherry is one of the most sought after cherries because of its high levels of antioxidants. Acerola cherries are grown in tropical and sub-tropical regions. They can be found in several parts of America like California, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central and South America.
Each fruit carries fiber, vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, folate, iron, calcium, and phosphorus. It also has active compounds such as dextrose, fructose, I-malic acid, niacin, pantothenic acid, protein, riboflavin, sucrose, thiamine; 3-methyl-3-butenol, dehydroascorbic acid, diketogulonic acid, furfural, hexadecanoic acid, and limonene.
This bright red cherry fruit is an excellent source of anthocyanins and flavonoids. The antioxidante in barbados cherry can help prevent numerous diseases such as cancer, diabetes, neurological impairments. Having such high antioxidant activity, acerola was proven to be the most powerful of all the Amazonian/American berries.
Aside from being a powerful antioxidant, acerola cherries can also be used as:
- astringent
- anti bacterial
- anti fungal
- anti inflammatory
- cardio tonic
Acerola cherries can be eaten fresh or can be used or added in fruit juices or smoothies. It can also be taken in capsules or tablets being an antioxidant supplement.
