Get Your Personalized Supplement StackSupplement Stack Quiz

Camu Camu Juice Fruit Powder

Also known as: Camu Camu, Amazonian cherry, Myrciaria dubia

Overview

Camu Camu, scientifically known as Myrciaria dubia, is a sour berry native to the Amazon rainforest, primarily found in Peru and Brazil. It is consumed as juice, powder, or extract derived from its fruit pulp, peel, and seeds. This fruit is exceptionally rich in vitamin C, containing 2,000–3,000 mg per 100g of fresh fruit, and boasts a high concentration of polyphenols, including flavonoids, anthocyanins, and ellagitannins. Its primary applications are as a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, with emerging research suggesting potential benefits for metabolic health. While research is ongoing, including human clinical trials and animal studies, there is a moderate level of evidence supporting its bioactivity, which extends beyond its high vitamin C content.

Benefits

Camu Camu offers several evidence-based benefits, largely attributed to its high vitamin C and polyphenol content: - **Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Effects:** A randomized controlled trial involving 20 habitual smokers demonstrated that daily consumption of 70 mL Camu Camu juice (providing 1050 mg vitamin C) for 7 days significantly reduced markers of oxidative stress (urinary 8-OHdG, serum reactive oxygen species) and inflammatory cytokines (hs-CRP, IL-6, IL-8). This effect was more pronounced than that observed with an equivalent dose of pure vitamin C tablets, suggesting the presence of additional bioactive compounds contributing to these benefits. The evidence for this benefit is moderate, based on a well-controlled but small-scale human trial. - **Antihyperglycemic Activity:** A controlled study with 23 healthy subjects showed that consuming 300 mL of Camu Camu juice with a carbohydrate meal lowered postprandial blood glucose levels compared to a water control. This effect is believed to be due to the inhibition of carbohydrate-digesting enzymes, α-amylase and α-glucosidase, indicating a potential role in glycemic control. The evidence for this benefit is moderate, based on a small-scale, short-term human study. - **Cardiovascular Effects:** Limited human data suggest that Camu Camu may contribute to reduced blood pressure and improved vasodilation. However, these findings are preliminary and require confirmation through larger, more robust randomized controlled trials. The evidence for this benefit is currently low. - **Other Potential Effects:** Animal studies have indicated potential hepatoprotective, anti-obesity, and anticancer properties. However, these findings have not yet been validated in human studies, and thus, the evidence for these benefits is very low.

How it works

Camu Camu exerts its effects through several mechanisms. Its potent antioxidant activity is primarily driven by its exceptionally high vitamin C content and a rich profile of polyphenols, such as flavonols, ellagitannins, and anthocyanins. These compounds work synergistically to scavenge reactive oxygen species, thereby reducing oxidative stress, and modulate inflammatory signaling pathways to mitigate inflammation. Additionally, Camu Camu extracts have been shown to inhibit digestive enzymes like α-amylase and α-glucosidase. By reducing the breakdown of carbohydrates and subsequent glucose absorption, this mechanism contributes to its observed antihyperglycemic effects. The vitamin C in Camu Camu is highly bioavailable, and other compounds like potassium may further enhance its absorption and retention within the body.

Side effects

Camu Camu is generally considered safe, with no significant adverse effects reported in human trials at doses up to 70 mL of juice per day or equivalent powder amounts. There are no documented drug interactions or contraindications in the current literature. However, long-term safety data are limited, and caution is advised for individuals with vitamin C sensitivity or those prone to kidney stone formation due to its high ascorbic acid content. Excessive intake of vitamin C can lead to gastrointestinal upset, including diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal cramps, although these effects are typically associated with much higher doses than those found in standard Camu Camu supplementation. Individuals with hemochromatosis should also exercise caution, as vitamin C can enhance iron absorption. As with any supplement, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional before starting Camu Camu, especially for pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, or individuals with pre-existing medical conditions.

Dosage

Effective dosages of Camu Camu in human studies typically involve 70 mL of 100% juice daily, which provides approximately 1050 mg of vitamin C, or equivalent amounts in powder form. While there is no established consensus for an optimal range, doses providing 600–1050 mg of vitamin C appear to be effective for achieving antioxidant and glycemic benefits. For acute effects on postprandial glycemia, consuming Camu Camu with meals may be beneficial. Both juice and powder forms have demonstrated bioactivity. Research suggests that microencapsulation techniques might further enhance the enzyme inhibitory activity of Camu Camu. It is important to note that the vitamin C content can vary depending on the fruit's ripeness, processing methods, and storage conditions. There are no officially established upper limits for Camu Camu, but individuals should be mindful of the general upper intake level for vitamin C, which is 2,000 mg per day for adults, to avoid potential gastrointestinal side effects.

FAQs

Is Camu Camu just vitamin C?

No, Camu Camu contains additional bioactive polyphenols that contribute to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, extending beyond the benefits provided by vitamin C alone.

Can it replace vitamin C supplements?

Camu Camu may offer superior antioxidant benefits due to its synergistic compounds, but its vitamin C content can vary by form and storage, so it's important to consider the specific product.

How soon do effects appear?

Some antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects have been observed within 7 days of consistent supplementation, as shown in human clinical trials.

Is it safe for everyone?

Generally yes, but due to its high vitamin C content, individuals with vitamin C sensitivity or a history of kidney stones should monitor their intake and consult a healthcare professional.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4296744/ – This randomized controlled trial investigated the effects of Camu Camu juice versus vitamin C tablets in 20 male smokers over 7 days. It found that Camu Camu juice significantly reduced oxidative stress and inflammatory markers more effectively than an equivalent dose of synthetic vitamin C, suggesting additional beneficial compounds beyond ascorbic acid.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9933082/ – This controlled trial with 23 healthy adults demonstrated that Camu Camu juice lowered postprandial blood glucose levels when consumed with a carbohydrate meal. The study also showed in vitro inhibition of α-amylase and α-glucosidase, indicating a potential mechanism for its antihyperglycemic effects.
https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/abs/10.1089/acm.2014.0130 – This systematic review identified Camu Camu's antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and enzyme inhibitory properties. It highlighted the fruit's high vitamin C content and polyphenol profile, noting potential issues with vitamin C stability but also the broad range of bioactivities observed in various studies, including animal and in vitro models.
https://www.florajournal.com/archives/2021/vol9issue1/PartB/8-5-44-610.pdf – This review article discusses the various health benefits of Camu Camu, including its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and potential cardiovascular effects. It compiles findings from multiple studies, emphasizing the fruit's rich phytochemical composition and its role in traditional medicine, while also calling for more extensive human clinical trials.