Acerola & Camu Camu—Hot Cosmeceutical Options

Camu camu also contains 10 times as much iron, three times as much niacin, twice as much riboflavin, and 50 percent more phosphorus than an orange. Additionally, it delivers enzymes, bioflavonoids and scores of other components that are collectively referred to as the P factor. The P factor not only acts as an antioxidant, but also makes the capillaries in the skin tougher and more durable. The bioflavonoids are anti-inflammatory, helping to improve wound healing and particularly effective in reducing the inflammation of skin ulcers.⁶

Applied topically, camu camu is a powerful anti-aging ingredient, promoting skin elasticity, boosting collagen, and aiding in neutralizing environmental pollutants. It also has natural antihistamine properties, reduces the size of pores, and is a natural healing agent for wounds and scars.⁷

The Amazon Herb Co. has incorporated camu camu into its Lluvia skin care line, as has Japan’s Sanko Industries in its Nano lotion, which promotes camu camu’s skin lightening and moisturizing properties.

Jeanette Jacknin, M.D., is a board-certified dermatologist and author of the book “Smart Medicine for Your Skin,” originally published by Penguin Putnam and now available at DrJacknin.com.

References

1. Mezadri T et al. “The acerola fruit: composition, productive characteristics and economic importance.” Arch Latinoam Nutr. 2006 Jun;56(2):101-9.

2. Aparecida de Assis S. “Antioxidant activity, ascorbic acid and total phenol of exotic fruits occurring in Brazil.” Int J Food Sci Nutr. 2008 Sept.

3. De Brito ES et al. “Anthocyanins present in selected tropical fruits: acerola, jambolão, jussara, and guajiru.” J Agric Food Chem. 2007 Nov 14;55(23):9389-94.

4. Hanamura T et al. “Skin-lightening effect of a polyphenol extract from Acerola (Malpighia emarginata DC.) fruit on UV-induced pigmentation.” Biosci Biotechnol Biochem. 2008 Dec;72(12):3211-8.

5. Walters S. “A Simple and Natural Facemask with Vitamin C; The Benefits of Camu Camu.” NaturalNews.com. Jan. 16, 2009.

6. Kressler A. “Camu Camu: The world’s most powerful natural antioxidant still unknown at the rest of the world.” www.peruherbals.com/3030/camucamu.html

7. Walters S. Op cit.

var loc = window.location.pathname;var nt=String(Math.random()).substr(2,10);document.write ('');