Medicinal Properties and Food Applications of Malpighia emarginata (acerola cherry)

10.55434/CBI.2023.10103

Abstract

Malpighia emarginata (acerola cherry) can be found growing throughout the Caribbean and other tropical regions. Also known as Barbados cherry or West Indian cherry, the fruit is a rich source of ascorbic acid, flavonoids, anthocyanins, and carotenoids, which contributes to its high antioxidant capacity. Locally the fruit is processed into a refreshing beverage. It may also be dehydrated and fermented. Waste generated during processing has been utilized in the manufacture of bagasse flour. The physiological and biochemical changes occurring as the fruit matures were also explored.