What is Barbados Cherry?

Barbados Cherry is a member of the plant family called Malpighiaceae. This shrub is originally from Central America, North South America, South Texas and Western India. It is also known as Acerola or West Indian cherries and is valued for its bright red, edible fruit. The fruit is known for its extremely high content of vitamin C and many other qualities of health benefits.

There is a certain dispute over the botanical name of the true Barbados Cherry. In some cases, this is called Malpighia GLABRA. However, this variety has smaller fruit and larger leaves than the more common Malpighia punch. Both varieties can grow to about 20 feet (6 meters) tall, but can be kept cut to a shorter and more manageable height. Found only in warm climate, survives only where the temperature does not fall under freezing. It is used in most areas where citrus trees grow.

This shrub is semi -convenient and often has several strains within one plant. Dark flowers are light pink and bloom in umbels of two or more. In some areas mIt can produce flowers several times a year or throughout the year. For the best flower and fruit production, it should be exposed to as much sunlight as possible. Plants will usually be a flower and bears fruit for the second year, but usually will not bring optimal results until the third year.

It was found that the fruit of Cherry Barbados has approximately 65 times the content of vitamin C in orange. Only 3.5 ounces (100 grams) of cherries may contain from 2,000 to 4,500 milligrams and one icing contains enough to meet the minimum daily requirements. As a result, Barbados Cherry is the second highest natural source of vitamin C - only pink hips contain more in one fruit.

In addition, Barbados Cherry is very high in vitamin A, containing about 12,500 IU per 3.5 ounces (100 grams) cherry. This is the same amount that is found in the carrot and is eight times the levels found in a glass of orange juice. It is also toGlass source of iron, magnesium, calcium, niacin, potassium, phosphorus and thiamine.

It has been found that cherries

Barbados cherries contain several antioxidants, including carotenoids and flavonoids. They also have high phenol acids. Regular consumption of fruit with a high content of these antioxidants can help avert heart disease and cancer. It can also strengthen the immune system and improve skin problems.

Fruit has a taste similar to crab apple and is best in consuming fresh. However, they are not stored well because the fruit is easily bruised. Freezing is not a possibility, because the fruit tends to disintegrate when it thaws. It is often made on jelly, juices, sherbets and cake fillings.