Acerola Cherry
Also known as: Malpighia emarginata, Malpighia glabra, Barbados cherry, West Indian cherry, acerola cherry extract, ACE
Effective Dosage
No established dose from provided studies
What the Science Says
Acerola cherry is a small tropical fruit that contains exceptionally high levels of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) — one of the richest natural sources known. The available research, conducted mostly in lab and animal settings, suggests its extracts may enhance the antioxidant activity of other plant compounds and could play a role in supporting immune function through its vitamin C content. Some preliminary animal research hints at possible effects on abnormal cell growth, but these findings have not been confirmed in human trials.
What It Doesn't Do
No proven cancer-fighting effect in humans — the tumor research was done in mice only. Not a substitute for a balanced diet or standard vitamin C supplements. No solid human evidence it prevents heart disease on its own. The antioxidant synergy studies were done in test tubes, not people. Don't expect dramatic immune or anti-aging results beyond what vitamin C normally provides.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Acerola cherry is known for its high vitamin C content, which may support immune function and act as an antioxidant. However, there is minimal research available to substantiate specific health claims or benefits.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: Unknown (insufficient research data)
Source: auto-research
Absorption & Bioavailability
Moderate to Good — vitamin C from whole food sources like acerola is generally well absorbed, but bioavailability of other bioactive compounds in acerola extract is not well characterized in human studies.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Nearly all available research is from animal or cell-based studies — no large human clinical trials found in the provided data
- Very high doses of vitamin C (from any source) can cause digestive upset, kidney stones, or interfere with certain medications
- Products vary widely in actual acerola content and vitamin C concentration — standardization is inconsistent across brands
- Often marketed with exaggerated anti-aging or immune-boosting claims that go well beyond what the limited evidence supports
Products Containing Acerola Cherry
See how Acerola Cherry is used in these analyzed products:
Research Sources
- General knowledge
- Limited published research available (2 papers provided, both pre-clinical)
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-04-06