by Idyllwilde

Created on: May 11, 2008   Last Updated: June 16, 2008

From the rain forests of Peru comes a potent addition to the field of natural healing. Camu-camu is a fruit just lately discovered in North American medicine. Resembling a large cranberry, camu-camu is a powerhouse of vitamin C; in fact, it is the single most compact source of this natural vitamin that you will find in any plant that is known. Its anti-oxidant quality alone should make it one of the most popular vitamin supplements on the shelf.

The beauty of a natural source of vitamin C as opposed to the synthetic is that it also contains the amino acids valine, leucine and serine. Valine, like the other two amino acids aids, in muscle growth and repair plus has the added benefit of providing stimulation of both body and mind. It is also shown to be beneficial in treating addictions and repairing damaged tissues that result from alcohol abuse.

Leucine is necessary in regulating levels of blood-sugar, and along with serine is vital to the body's ability to function properly. All three of these together aid the brain in creating the chemicals needed to stave off depression and strengthen the immune system.

Camu-camu is a strong ally when it comes to fighting off illness; it is particularly well-known as an enemy of the herpes virus. The herpes virus, in all of its forms from cold-sores to shingles, resides in the base of the spine. When the body is stressed out, it cannot fight the virus, allowing the herpes to come out of hiding and attack. Camu-camu, being the most naturally occurring herpetic phytochemical, works to fight off this nasty predator without incurring the side-effects caused by so many synthetic drugs.

Camu-camu is usually taken as a powder in capsule form, although you can also buy the powder and add it to unheated desserts such as puddings or smoothies. It is also available in juice or jelly form, but unfortunately is still difficult to find in the raw or frozen berry state. Look for it in health-food stores, on-line and in natural supplement catalogs. With some luck, camu-camu will be more easily obtained as the demand for this wonderful fruit grows.

Learn more about this author, Idyllwilde.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.