Camu Camu Foods High in Antioxidants

In the Amazonian flood plains between Peru and Brazil grows a bushy tree- Myrciaria dubia- better known as Camu-Camu. After the sweet smelling, white waxy petals drop it develops small red/purple colored fruit that looks like a cherry. Among herbalists, camu-camu is known for its astringent, antioxidant, anti inflammatory, antiviral, analgesic and emollient and nutritional properties and is also a source of phosphorus, protein, iron, niacin, thiamin riboflavin, beta-carotene, calcium, and three different amino acids. It is a rich source of flavinoids.

People who use Camu-camu for its vitamin C have found that just 1-2 grams of this natural source is a better immune system booster and large doses of commercially available synthetic Vitamin C. Camu-camu is about 2-3% Vitamin C by fresh weight, which is an exceptional concentration and testifies to Camu-camu’s value as an antioxidant. And, as you are probably aware, antioxidants are important when it comes to my two other favorite “antis” anti- inflammatory and anti-aging (of which I am especially fond).

Camu-camu is currently being studied to access its mood balancing properties. As published in the Clinician’s Handbook of Natural Healing (1998) by Gary Null, Ph.D. Camu-camu is number two in terms of the potency of the chemical compounds it contains with mood balancing properties. While the connection has not been thoroughly researched, it appears that Camu-camu might provide nutritional support for the brain’s own production of mood balancing chemicals. Additionally, research has been published linking vitamin C and an increased level of serotonin.

Dr Mike Adams, (who’s called the Health Ranger) had this to say about Camu-Camu:
“I’ll tell you a secret about camu. Camu-camu is the highest natural source of vitamin C in the world. And it’s not just one isolated chemical (ascorbic acid), it’s the full symphony of protective antioxidants. My research on this herb, based in part of the works of Dr. James Duke, leads me to the conclusion that camu-camu crosses the blood-brain barrier and offers extraordinary protection to the nervous system. There is no question in my mind that this product can drastically reduce eye disorders, including macular degeneration, as well as protect the brain and nervous system from degenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia.” (aiowithac-11.com)