Acerola, or Barbados cherry, is a tropical fruit loaded with vitamin C and antioxidants like carotenoids and anthocyanins. The body uses these compounds to maintain immune defenses and counter oxidative stress.
People take acerola as a powder, juice, or extract, usually with meals to make it easier on the stomach.
Because acerola supplies a concentrated dose of vitamin C, those with hemochromatosis or glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency should skip high intakes. Too much vitamin C can increase iron absorption, potentially leading to iron overload, or trigger hemolysis in G6PD-deficient individuals. Very large amounts might also cause digestive upset or promote kidney stone formation in people prone to them.