Camu camu

Myrciaria dubia

A small, bushy, evergreen, riverside tree reaching 3-5m (9-16ft) in height. The aromatic, waxy, white flowers are small. Leaves are opposite and lanceolate.

Family: Myrtaceae

Which probiotic is it in?: Camu camu is a key herb in Sustain

Habit and cultivation: Native to the Amazon basin and grows naturally in seasonal flooded areas along river and oxbow lakes. Prefers hot, damp, tropical climates but can survive in the subtropics. The fruit is produced at the height of the rainy season and can remain productive for several decades.

Actions (known for): Anti-viral, anti-oxidant, immune booster, anti-inflammatory.

History of Camu camu

Considered to be the richest source of Vitamin C of all the plant species. Documentation of traditional uses is very scarce, but long used by the native peoples of the area. It was harvested directly into canoes.

Parts used from the Camu camu

Leaves, fruits and seeds.

Constituents (bio available chemicals):

Researched information currently is very limited. Anthocyanins: Cyanidin-3-glucoside and delphinidin-3-glucoside.

Nutritional constituents:

Vitamin: C and flavonoids. Mineral: calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, potassium, sodium, zinc. Protein, starch, carbohydrates, sugars, dietary fibre, fat.

Indications:

Common cold and flu, genital herpes, cold sores, shingles, depression, cancer, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes.

Dosage:

1/4 tsp of pure dried powder daily in water, salad dressings, smoothies, oats or juice.

British Herbal Pharmacopoeia

Cautions for therapeutic doses

Gastrointestinal disturbances and diarrhoea, but only if taken in excess due to Vitamin C content.

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