What Are Acerola Cherries, and Why Should We Eat ‘Em?
What Are Acerola Cherries, and Why Should We Eat ‘Em?
Barbados cherries, also called acerola cherries, are living the life we all wish we were living right now. They’re bright plants native to tropical regions of the Western Hemisphere; imagine spending all day on the beach, just growing.
The shrublike plant on which the cherries grow is also popularly cultivated as a showy garden plant. The tart cherries kind of look like shrimpy tomatoes, but they’re edible and present a host of health benefits. While they’re called “cherries”- they technically aren’t. They are pleasant to taste (supposedly) and have a range of uses in traditional healthcare practices.
So why eat acerola?
- The rich vitamin C presence in the berry makes it a great anti-flu agent. Eating them can prevent colds, and scurvy!
- They promote athletic performance.
- The antioxidants and minerals in acerola make it a good anti-depressant.
- Acerola cherries are “astringents” according to Healthline- which means they have a variety of benefits for skin- from reducing blemishes to promoting a healthy glow and enhancing skin elasticity (avoiding wrinkles).
- They have antifungal properties.
- Vitamin C also improves the health and look of one’s hair/skin/nails!
Maybe it’s time for me to try a new fruit. Thoughts? Let us know!! 🍒
