Small but seriously powerful, Acerola is one of nature’s most potent sources of Vitamin C. Known for supporting immunity, skin health and overall vitality, this vibrant fruit has earned its place in the superfood spotlight, and for good reason!
Let’s get into it.
What is Acerola?
Acerola (Malpighia emarginata) is a bright red, cherry-like fruit native to Central and South America, Mexico and the Caribbean. Often referred to as the Barbados cherry or West Indian cherry, it’s technically classified as a berry, despite its appearance. Once a local staple, Acerola is now enjoyed worldwide thanks to its exceptional nutritional profile and reputation as a true superfood.
A brief look at its origins
Acerola has been enjoyed for centuries, traditionally foraged and valued for both its taste and health benefits. Its rise to global recognition began during the Second World War, when it was planted in “victory gardens” across Puerto Rico to support nutrition during food shortages. Soon after, research highlighted its extraordinarily high Vitamin C content, and Acerola quickly gained worldwide attention.
Where does Acerola come from today?
While fresh Acerola can be eaten raw or cooked, it’s highly perishable. Because of this, it’s most commonly consumed as a powder, juice or supplement outside of the regions where it grows.
This allows its nutritional benefits to be preserved and enjoyed daily in a much more convenient way.
4 benefits of Acerola
1. A natural Vitamin C powerhouse
Acerola is one of the richest natural sources of Vitamin C available. Just 100g provides around 1500–4000mg of Vitamin C - that’s up to 100x more than oranges or lemons.
Vitamin C plays a key role in:
- Supporting immune function
- Reducing fatigue
- Protecting cells from oxidative stress
Because it’s water-soluble and not stored in the body, regular intake is key, making daily superfood blends an easy, effective way to stay topped up!
2. Supports healthy hair, skin & nails
Vitamin C is essential for collagen production (the structural protein that keeps skin firm, hair strong and nails healthy).
As natural collagen production declines with age, ensuring adequate Vitamin C intake becomes even more important.
Acerola also brings:
- Antioxidants that help protect against environmental damage
- Hydration support by reducing water loss from the skin
- Anti-inflammatory properties to help calm redness and support an even complexion
3. Immune system support
Vitamin C is well known for its role in immune health, and Acerola delivers it in its most natural form.
It helps:
- Stimulate the production of immune cells
- Support faster recovery during illness
- Protect the body from oxidative stress
Alongside Vitamin C, Acerola contains a wide range of phytonutrients, including flavonoids and carotenoids, which work together to strengthen the body’s natural defences.
4. Supports brain health
Acerola is rich in Anthocyanins - plant compounds known for their neuroprotective properties.
These help:
- Protect brain cells from oxidative stress
- Reduce inflammation
- Support memory and cognitive function over time
It’s a simple addition that supports both body and mind.
Acerola, the Rheal way
At Rheal, we believe in using ingredients that truly deliver which is why Acerola features across a number of our blends.
You’ll find Acerola in our Berry Beauty, as well as our Plant Collagen blend, where its naturally high Vitamin C content plays a key role in supporting collagen formation. This helps to maintain healthy hair, skin and nails, working from within to support structure, strength and glow!
More recently, we’ve also added Acerola to our Clean Greens, enhancing the blend with an extra boost of natural Vitamin C to support immunity, energy and overall wellbeing.
Clean Greens is now available in three flavours - Original, Pineapple and Berry - delivering the same benefits you know and love, with a taste to suit your routine.
Because when it comes to feeling your best, it’s the small, consistent habits that make the biggest difference.
References
Vitamin C Content of Acerola - https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0308814610014019
Vitamin C Content of Acerola Compared with Oranges - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6098779/
Vitamin C Content of Organic Acerola - https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0308814610014019
Decreasing Collagen Synthesis as we Age - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1606623/
Antioxidants and Phytonutrients Found in Acerola - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6098779/
Skin Hydrating Properties of Acerola - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3673383/
Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Acerola - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3673383/
Immune Boosting Properties of Acerola - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16373990/
Vitamin C Stimulates Release of Immune Cells - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25157026/
Vitamin C Antioxidant Activity - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12569111/
Acerola Stimulates Immune Response - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8227682/
Anthocyanins Found in Acerola - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3459459/
