Abstract
- Background
Acerola (Malpighia emarginata DC.), widely recognized as Barbados cherry, is a natural botanical raw material whose unprocessed fruits and leaves serve as an exceptionally rich source of natural ascorbic acid (vitamin C) alongside a diverse, abundant matrix of bioactive polyphenolic compounds. Due to this potent phytochemical profile, regular consumption and utilization of acerola deliver significant health-promoting benefits, most notably driven by robust anti-free radical and antioxidant activities. This comprehensive review synthesizes contemporary scientific literature examining the multifaceted therapeutic properties of acerola, including its anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and systemic physiological effects, alongside a detailed exploration of their underlying biochemical mechanisms and clinical recommendations for disease prevention.
- Methods
A systematic evaluation of recent scientific reports and literature regarding the properties, phytoconstituents, and health-promoting effects of acerola fruits and leaves was conducted. Data concerning ascorbic acid concentrations, phenolic profiles, free radical scavenging capacity, molecular pathways of anti-inflammatory and antineoplastic action, and dietary consumption guidelines were systematically compiled, critically appraised, and synthesized.
- Results
Synthesized findings highlight that acerola acts as a powerful natural antioxidant capable of neutralizing reactive oxygen species and mitigating oxidative stress-mediated pathologies. The review details the robust anti-inflammatory mechanisms of acerola extracts, noting their ability to modulate key inflammatory mediators. Furthermore, the evaluation of its anticancer potential outlines how edible parts of the plant can be harnessed to formulate innovative products and therapeutic preparations designed for cancer prevention and complementary intervention. Practical dietary and consumption recommendations are also established to support the prevention of inflammatory and free radical-related chronic diseases.
- Conclusions
Acerola (Malpighia emarginata DC.) fruits and leaves are exceptionally valuable natural resources possessing profound antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. Leveraging their rich vitamin C and polyphenolic composition offers significant prophylactic and therapeutic potential in modern nutritional medicine and preventative healthcare.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10889565/