Camu Camu (Myrciaria dubia) is a sour berry, similar to cherry in colour, native to the Amazon Rainforest but, like acaí, also has gained Superfood popularity worldwide due to its many purported health benefits. Camu Camu is considered a Superfood — mainly due to a high content of certain nutrients and powerful plant compounds, including Vitamin C, which plays many important roles in our bodies. For example, it helps to strengthen our immune system and is needed for the formation of collagen, a protein that supports our skin, bones and muscles. What's more, Vitamin C acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting our cells from unstable molecules called free radicals. When free radicals outnumber antioxidants in the body it leads to a condition called oxidative stress, which has been linked to several chronic conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease and cancer. As a comparison Camu Camu contains 10 times more Vitamin C than oranges and 40 times more than lemons.
Camu Camu is estimated to contain up to 3000 mg of Vitamin C per 3.5 ounces - 100 grams - which is the highest content of Vitamin C of any plant product in the world. Due to its strong sour taste, it's rarely eaten fresh and typically sold in powder form or as frozen pulp. Since the powder has had all water removed, it contains more Vitamin C per ounce/gram compared to the fresh berries and pulp. Camu Camu has impressive antioxidant capacities as it's not only loaded with Vitamin C but also contains many other potent compounds like flavonoids, including anthocyanins and ellagic acid, which combats cancer and reduces inflammation in our bodies. Ellagic acid also promotes mental functions. Camu Camu is furthermore gluten free.
The exceptionally high concentration of Vitamin C and antioxidants in 100% natural Camu Camu freeze-dried powder, like in no other plant products, are powerful properties that help to strengthen our immune systems. This has never been more important than in the light of the Covid-19 global pandemic. Consuming Camu Camu on a regular basis can, according recent research, lower the risk of contracting present and future viral attacks. (Reference: www.clinicaltrials.gov Identifier NCT04264533).
Chronic inflammation negatively impacts the health of our cells and has been linked to all known inflammatory diseases (ending in -itis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, hepatitis, ulcerative colitis, bronchitis, appendicitis, etc.) as well as other inflammatory diseases e.g. allergies; lupus, asthma, psoriasis, sinusitis, gastritis, etc.
Among the many other health benefits of Camu Camu can be mentioned:
Reduced Weight. The berry may reduce body weight by increasing the number of burnt calories and positively altering gut bacteria.
Improved Bood Sugar Levels. Research has shown that Camu Camu may minimize the spike in blood sugar after eating a high-carb meal.
Anti-Microbial Properties. A test-tube study showed that the peel and seeds of Camu Camu reduced bacterial growth of the potentially harmful bacteria escherichia coli and streptococcus mutans.
Healthier Blood Pressure. Test-tube and human studies have observed that the berry may help reduce blood pressure by promoting the dilation of blood vessels. Camu Camu may have antibacterial properties and could help reduce blood pressure, weight and blood sugar levels. However, more research is needed to support these findings.
As Camu Camu is sour it makes it unpleasant for most people to eat on its own. Therefore often sweetened with e.g. stevia in juices to improve taste. Still, the berry is most popular in powder form, as the water is removed, making the concentration of Camu Camu higher and prolonging shelf life. Camu Camu powder can be easily added to smoothies, bowls, oats, müesli, yogurts and salad dressings.
The Camu Camu atomized powder marketed by the Amazon Superfoods Company is 100% natural as the fruits are cultivated and harvested in a chemical free and organic environment by independent local and indigenous communities living deep in the Peruvian Amazon Rainforest.
