Side Effects of Camu Camu You Should Be Aware Of
Understand the potential side effects, safety precautions, and interactions of camu camu before adding it to your wellness regimen.
Image: ShutterStock
Camu camu (Myrciaria dubia) is a small, sour berry native to the Amazon rainforest that has gained global popularity for its exceptionally high vitamin C content and purported health benefits. However, as with many herbal or natural supplements, camu camu has potential side effects and safety considerations that users should recognize before incorporating it into their health regimen.
What Is Camu Camu?
Camu camu is a tropical fruit most famous for its remarkable vitamin C concentration—often touted as among the highest of any food source. The berry is usually available in powder or capsule form and is commonly used in smoothies, juices, and dietary supplements due to its antioxidant properties and claimed benefits for immunity, mood, and overall wellness.
Potential Side Effects Of Camu Camu
Though camu camu is natural, this does not mean it is universally safe. Several side effects have been reported or theorized, particularly when consumed in excessive amounts or by individuals with specific health concerns.
1. Digestive Issues
The most commonly reported side effects of camu camu are gastrointestinal in nature. This is largely attributed to its exceptionally high vitamin C content.
- Nausea: Taking large doses, especially in supplement form, may cause nausea.
Excess vitamin C increases stomach acidity and can irritate the digestive tract. - Upset Stomach and Diarrhea: Gastrointestinal disturbances such as cramping and diarrhea are frequently associated with exceeding the recommended dose.
- Vomiting: This is occasionally reported in cases of very high intake, and typically resolves once camu camu intake is discontinued.
These symptoms tend to present when daily consumption exceeds one to three teaspoons of camu camu powder, equating to well over the recommended vitamin C intake for most adults.
2. Potential Liver Toxicity
Rare but serious adverse events have been linked to camu camu ingestion. Notably, there is a documented case of acute hepatitis (liver inflammation) in a healthy adult man following daily use of a camu camu-containing supplement for ten days.
- Case Report: The individual developed jaundice, dark urine, fatigue, and elevated liver enzymes, and tests ruled out viral or autoimmune hepatitis, implicating camu camu as the probable cause.
- Implications: While isolated, this case highlights the need for caution, especially given the lack of long-term safety studies.
3. Increased Risk Of Kidney Troubles
The body excretes excess vitamin C through the urine, but very high intake over time can put strain on the kidneys.
- Potential for Kidney Stones: Excess vitamin C can be metabolized into oxalate, which may contribute to the formation of kidney stones in predisposed individuals.
4. Interference With Chemotherapy Or Other Medications
There is concern that antioxidants with strong reducing capacity (like the vitamin C in camu camu) might interfere with certain chemotherapy drugs that rely on producing oxidative stress to destroy cancer cells.
- If you are undergoing treatment for cancer or have been prescribed medications with narrow therapeutic indices or specific metabolic requirements, always consult your healthcare provider before using camu camu products.
5. Allergic Reactions (Rare)
Though not well documented, as with any fruit or supplement, an allergic reaction is theoretically possible. Symptoms could include skin rash, itching, or swelling.
Groups Who Should Take Extra Caution
- Pregnant And Breastfeeding Women: There is insufficient data on camu camu safety for expectant or nursing mothers. Its extremely high vitamin C content may be harmful in excess; thus, best to avoid or use only minimal amounts and under professional supervision.
- People With Kidney Disorders: High ascorbic acid intake can worsen kidney function or raise the risk of stones in sensitive groups.
- Individuals Taking Prescription Medication: Camu camu’s impact on drug metabolism and excretion is not fully understood. It may reduce the efficacy of medications metabolized by the liver or interact antagonistically with chemotherapy agents. Professional consultation is strongly recommended.
- Those With Iron Overload Disorders: Camu camu contains not just vitamin C but also high iron levels, which may be problematic for users with hereditary hemochromatosis or other iron regulation issues.
How Much Camu Camu Is Safe?
Given the paucity of high-quality safety research, there is no universally accepted standard dose for camu camu consumption. General guidance derived from experts and supplement labels suggests:
- Typical Adult Dose: 1-3 teaspoons (about 2-6 grams) of powder daily provides sufficient vitamin C for most adults and is unlikely to cause adverse effects if used intermittently.
- Maximum Safe Dose: Doses above 3 teaspoons per day are more likely to cause side effects, particularly those related to excess vitamin C.
It is always important to start with the lowest effective dose and increase gradually as tolerated, paying attention to any adverse symptoms.
Precautions Before Using Camu Camu
- Consult a healthcare professional before starting, especially if you are pregnant, breast-feeding, taking medications, or have existing health conditions.
- Check for possible interactions with prescription and over-the-counter drugs or other supplements.
- Buy camu camu from reputable sources to minimize the risk of contamination or adulteration.
- Do not use in place of evidence-based medical treatments for chronic or serious illness.
Comparing Camu Camu With Other Vitamin C Sources
| Source | Typical Vitamin C Content (mg/100g) | Notable Side Effects | Other Nutrients |
|---|---|---|---|
| Camu Camu | 2,000-3,000 | GI upset, possible liver toxicity with excess | Iron, antioxidants |
| Acerola Cherry | 1,600 | GI upset (high doses) | Vitamin A, polyphenols |
| Guava | 228 | Rarely GI upset (very high doses) | Fiber, potassium |
| Orange | 53 | Minimal, very rare | Fiber, folate |
This table shows why camu camu, despite its potential benefits, poses a higher risk for vitamin C excess than more commonly consumed fruits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is camu camu safe for daily use?
A: For most healthy adults, moderate occasional use within recommended guidelines (1–3 tsp powder per day) is considered safe. Long-term safety, especially at high intakes, is not well studied. Those with health conditions or on medications should consult a healthcare provider first.
Q: Can camu camu cause liver problems?
A: There is a rare but documented case of drug-induced hepatitis in a person who took a camu camu supplement daily for 10 days. While such incidents appear uncommon, they underscore the need to use any concentrated supplement cautiously.
Q: Are there drug interactions with camu camu?
A: Camu camu contains high levels of antioxidants and vitamin C, which may interact with certain chemotherapy medications or influence liver metabolism of other drugs. Always consult your doctor if you are on prescription medicines.
Q: Is camu camu safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
A: Data on safety in pregnancy and lactation are lacking. Because of the risk of vitamin C overdose, it is safest to avoid camu camu except under medical guidance.
Q: What are signs of camu camu overdose?
A: Overdose symptoms mimic vitamin C excess, including nausea, cramps, diarrhea, vomiting, or, in rare cases, signs of liver trouble such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) or dark urine.
Tips For Safe Use Of Camu Camu
- Stick to recommended dosages unless directed otherwise by a healthcare professional.
- Discontinue use immediately if you notice unexplained jaundice, dark urine, or persistent digestive upset.
- Inform your doctor about all supplements you use, as many natural products can interact with medications.
- Keep supplements out of reach of children, as toxicity is more likely with accidental overdose.
Final Thoughts
Camu camu is a potent source of vitamin C and other nutrients, and offers legitimate wellness benefits in moderate quantities. However, because of its high potency, the risks of overdose, rare reports of liver toxicity, and potential drug interactions, it should be used judiciously. When in doubt, consult a healthcare professional to ensure your use of camu camu is safe and appropriate for your individual needs.
References
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/camu-camu
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1243/camu-camu
- https://draxe.com/nutrition/camu-camu/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4296744/
- https://www.scirp.org/journal/paperinformation?paperid=34688
- https://www.rxlist.com/supplements/camu_camu.htm
- https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/camu-camu
Read full bio of Sneha Tete
