What Is Acerola Extract?

Acerola extract is a commercial preparation that supposedly confers a broad spectrum of health benefits on those who use it as a dietary supplement. Some of the claims rest on a solid foundation.

The Extract's Source

• The acerola extract comes from the fruit of Malpighia glabra, a tropical shrub or small tree native to the Caribbean and cultivated in Brazil and elsewhere. One of its common names is Barbados cherry because of the appearance of its fruit.

Claims

• Commercial companies make the following claims: Acerola extract confers health benefits on such body organs as the heart and the liver; it helps synthesize collagen and counteracts inflammation and fever; and it helps heal wounds and fosters the health of the immune system.

Beneficial Ingredients

• A properly prepared acerola extract will contain such antioxidants as vitamin C, beta-carotene and anthocyanins. Antioxidants protect body tissues from being harmed by highly reactive atoms, molecules or ions that might otherwise harm them. These antioxidants explain and validate many of the claims made for acerola extract. Acerola extract also contains such physiologically important minerals as potassium, calcium, magnesium and iron.