Camu-Camu powder: uses and nutritional benefits

• Anti-oxidant (vitamin C, anthocyanin, flavanone, flavonol, phenolic acid): due to its incredible vitamin C content, Camu-Camu powder protects cells against oxidative stress. In fact, vitamin C neutralizes free radicals. In addition, Camu-Camu powder is a vector of many other antioxidant phytonutrients: anthocyanins, flavonones, flavonols and phenolic acids. It even provides beta-carotene, also recognized as an antioxidant.

• Anti-inflammatory : a scientific study observes the effects of Camu-Camu powder on mice to which they were offered a diet high in fat and high in sugar. Scientists observed a reduction in inflammation of adipose tissue and a reduction in the concentration of interleukin-1β (mediator of inflammation) in the group of mice treated with Camu-Camu powder. Another study concludes on the veracity of the anti-inflammatory power of Camu-Camu powder, because it would reduce the formation of pro-inflammatory chemokines.

• Slimming : according to a scientific study carried out on fattened mice, the administration of Camu-Camu powder in their diet stabilizes their weight. Scientists suggest that Camu-Camu powder prevents the accumulation of fats (visceral, subcutaneous and interscapular). This same study suggests that other constituents, other than vitamin C, are responsible for the anti-obesity effects observed.

• Photoprotector (trans-lutein, zeaxanthin): Camu-Camu powder contains pigments from the carotenoid family: trans lutein and zeaxanthin. These pigments concentrate in the macula of the retina (area of ​​the eye). They protect photoreceptor cells from ultraviolet rays and peroxidation.

• Prebiotic : a scientific study carried out on mice demonstrates that the group of mice supplemented with Camu-camu powder has a “better” microbiota than the control group. Indeed, Camu-Camu powder appears to support microbial diversity and increases the ratio Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes. Two factors of a healthy microbiota.

• Laxative (fiber): fibers represent more than a quarter of the total composition of Camu-Camu powder. Thus, Camu-camu powder stimulates digestive transit by significantly increasing the total volume of stools.

• Antihypertensive (sodium): Camu-Camu powder is naturally low in sodium. It therefore does not contribute to sodium intake, thus preventing a rise in blood pressure.

• Protector of the osteoarticular system (vitamin C): Camu-Camu powder is an excellent source of vitamin C. Its presence ensures the strength and rigidity of bones, but also the resistance and hydration of cartilage. Indeed, vitamin C plays a role in the formation of collagen, an essential protein of the osteoarticular system.

• Vasculoprotective (vitamin C): Camu-Camu powder contributes to maintaining the integrity and normal functioning of blood vessels. This property comes from its contribution of vitamin C. The latter participates in the formation of collagen. Collagen is a protein that makes up the walls of blood vessels. More precisely, it is found in the media, the intermediate layer of the three coats of the vascular system.

• Immunomodulating (vitamin C): Camu-Camu powder is a vector of vitamin C. The vitamin is involved in the functioning of immune cells.

• Dental protector (vitamin C): thanks to vitamin C, Camu-Camu powder contributes to the formation of collagen. Collagen is essential for the oral sphere: it makes up the gums and teeth.

• Smoothing (vitamin C): the dermis of the skin is richly made up of collagen. This structuring protein provides the skin with the necessary rigidity and firmness. Vitamin C promotes collagen biosynthesis. By providing plenty of vitamin C, Camu-Camu powder helps improve the overall appearance of the skin.

• Nervous rebalancing (vitamin C): Camu-Camu powder is full of vitamin C. This intake stimulates the production of catecholamines, substances from the amine group which act as neurotransmitters (they ensure the transmission of nerve impulses).

• Contributes to energy metabolism (carbohydrate, vitamin C): Camu-Camu powder provides carbohydrate energy. Carbohydrates are essential fuels for the body's cells, especially glucose-dependent cells. These carbohydrates are mainly complex carbohydrates: they provide energy throughout the day. Alongside these carbohydrates, Camu-Camu powder is rich in vitamin C. Vitamin C contributes to normal energy metabolism.

• Anti-fatigue (vitamin C): vitamin C is known to reduce fatigue. In addition, it fights against iron deficiency, because it improves the absorption of non-heme iron (from plants). Iron deficiency can manifest as excessive fatigue.

• Hypocholesterolemic (fiber): through fiber, Camu-Camu powder reduces the absorption of dietary cholesterol. This aspect reduces the amount of cholesterol absorbed which reduces cholesterol levels.

The Camu-Camu is an Amazonian tree of the Myrtacaceae family. Currently cultivated in Peru and Brazil, it thrives in swampy and flood-prone areas of the Amazon. The tree can reach four meters in height. Its fruit is a pink to purple berry. It measures approximately 2 cm and its flesh is yellowish. The Camu-Camu tree is cultivated for its tangy fruit, an original fruit of Peruvian cuisine. Recently, it has been exported all over the world because of its richness in vitamin C.