Description and Habitat

Camu camu  is a small evergreen shrub native to the Amazonian lowlands and a close relative of the guavaberry or rumberry.  Camu camu (Mycaria dubia) is a bush that grows in black water rivers, especially in those abandoned courses called "cochas", ecosystems of social and economic importance to the Amazon jungle of Peru. 

Uses and Cultivation

Camu camu is used mainly for its edible fruits, having a unique aroma and fruit pigmentation.  Camu camu is the highest natural source of vitamin C in the world.  These fruits contain more vitamin C than any other plant in the world, from 30 to 60 times more than an orange (about two grams of vitamin C per 100 grams of fruit).  Camu camu is also a significant source of potassium, providing 711mg per kg of fruit.  Seedlings from this shrub are available free of charge from the Peruvian government to communities of native people who are rainforest dwellers.  They plant and tend the shrubs through harvest, thus contributing to rainforest economy.

Camu camu juice may be blended with other fruits, producing a unique mixture of antioxidant-rich fruit juice. Camu camu is considered by some as one of the most potent plants with medicinal properties that fight the herpes virus.  This herb may also be taken on a daily basis to provide highly effective support for the body’s immune system, thus fighting the herpes virus when it is lies dormant in the body.  Camu camu helps to strengthen the immune system, maintain healthy gums, eyes and skin.  Camu camu is also known to reduce inflammation and support collagen, tendons, and ligaments; improve respiratory health, and maintain mental clarity at times of stress. 

In the culinary world, Camu camu is also used to make marmalade and flavor for candy or desserts.  Camu camu berries are the fruit of the tree that are dried and ground to produce a dietary supplement in capsule or powder form. The berries have a red or purple skin, white flesh, and large seeds.  Camu camu berries are easy to cultivate, and the the tree will grow in tropical and subtropical climates. Berries will begin growing when the tree is between four and six years old, and they appear once each year.  Camu camu trees can continue to bear fruit for decades.