Open AccessCAMU-CAMU (Myrciaria dubia (HBK) McVaugh), a small Amazonian fruit rich in vitamin C and a supplement for immunity
Author(s) -
Ozanildo Vilaça do Nascimento,
Emerson Lima Silva
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
research, society and development
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2525-3409
DOI - 10.33448/rsd-v10i6.15877
Subject(s) - vitamin c , immune system , amazon rainforest , biology , antioxidant , oxidative stress , tumor necrosis factor alpha , immunity , vitamin e , immunology , traditional medicine , botany , physiology , food science , medicine , ecology , biochemistry
The Amazon Rainforest is rich in a diversity of species with various bioactive properties that have been widely used to treat a variety of inflammatory diseases. During the infection process, an oxidative stress environment is created that leads to cellular damage mediated by the transcription factor NF-kB, and triggers the production of pro-inflammatory chemical mediators, such as tumor necrosis factor-α [TNF-α] and interleukins IL-1β, IL-6, which causes a decline in the immune system. In this sense, the camu-camu fruit, which is native to the Amazon region, has in its nutritional composition several bioactive compounds and the highest level of vitamin C among Brazilian tropical fruits. It is also noted for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, the objective of this review is to analyze the evidence collected in the literature regarding camu-camu as a functional food for the immune system in oxidative and inflammatory events.