Latin name

Malpighia punicifolia L.

Origin

Tropical regions of South America (particularly Peru and the Amazonian rainforests of Brazil and Venezuela) – Also present in the Antilles where it is known as the “West Indian cherry”.

Used part

The fruit.

Active components

Flavonoids: Contribute to antioxidant activity

Usage

The bush is often planted in ornamental gardens and hedges. It can also be cultivated indoors as a bonsai tree. The fruit is edible and can be pressed into a juice. In Brazil, the fruit is traditionally used to treat dysentery, diarrhoea, fever and hepatic disorders. Barbados cherry is mainly used thanks to its naturally high content of vitamin C. The content is higher before the fruit ripens. Vitamin C protects cells from oxidative stress _1-3, and contributes to the effective function of the immune system 4 and improves the absorption of iron. ₅