Go Ruby Go! By IVL Institute For Vibrant Living Overview & Drug Interactions

Acerola, also known as the Barbados cherry or West Indian cherry, is a small, red fruit that is native to Central and South America. The fruit is known for its high levels of vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant that can help to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Acerola is commonly used as a supplement to increase vitamin C intake and it is available in various forms such as capsules, tablets, and powders. It is also often found in juice, jams, and other food products.

Cranberries are a type of small, tart berry native to North America. They are a rich source of antioxidants, which are substances that help to protect cells from damage caused by harmful substances called free radicals. They are also a good source of vitamin C, fiber, and other nutrients. Cranberry dietary supplements contain concentrated cranberry extract or powdered cranberry fruit. They are often used to prevent or treat urinary tract infections (UTIs), as cranberries are thought to have certain compounds that may help to prevent bacteria from attaching to the urinary tract.

Papaya, scientifically known as Carica papaya, is a tropical fruit celebrated for its vibrant orange flesh, sweet flavor, and numerous health benefits. Originating in Central America, papaya is now cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. Rich in vitamins A and C, as well as enzymes like papain, papaya is recognized for its digestive and immune-boosting properties. Its versatile use ranges from consumption as a fresh fruit to the production of dietary supplements, skincare products, and even meat tenderizers due to its enzymatic content.

Sweet orange, also known as Citrus sinensis, is a type of citrus fruit native to Southeast Asia. It is a good source of vitamin C and other nutrients, including folate, potassium, and dietary fiber. It is also a good source of antioxidants, which are substances that help to protect the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals. Sweet orange is used in traditional medicine as both aromatherapy and herbal remedies. The essential oil is generally extracted from the sweet orange peel and is used for its purported relaxant properties. As a dietary supplement, it is most commonly used to treat digestive problems and to help reduce the severity of colds and other respiratory infections.

Pomegranate is a fruit that is native to parts of the Middle East and South Asia and is currently cultivated around the world. It is known for its bright red, edible seeds and its tart, slightly sweet flavor. It is It is a rich source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, and widely consumed as either the fresh fruit, or in different preparations (e.g., as a beverage). Pomegranate is believed to have a number of health benefits. In traditional medicine, it is most often used for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Bilberry is a small, perennial shrub that belongs to the Ericaceae family and is native to Europe, the northern United States, and Canada. It is known for its small, dark purple berries, which are similar in appearance to blueberries. The name bilberry is derived from the Danish word 'bollebar', meaning "dark berry". Bilberry is high in antioxidants, including flavonoids, and are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin E, and manganese. Bilberry has a long history of use in traditional medicine and is claimed to have a number of potential health benefits, including improving vision, reducing inflammation, and treating diarrhea.

Barley, a widely used grain renowned for its high fiber content, serves both as a staple food and an ingredient in brewing various types of alcoholic beverages. Research suggests that barley's dietary fiber may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. Studies indicate that daily consumption of 3-12 grams of barley can help lower total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels in adults with hypercholesterolemia. A key component of barley is beta-glucans, a soluble fiber known for its health benefits. Barley also contains tocopherols and tocotrienols, forms of vitamin E with antioxidant properties that further enhance its nutritional value. Moreover, barley contains hordenine and lunasin, compounds under study for their potential health-promoting effects.

Eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosus) is a plant native to Asia and a member of the Araliaceae family. It is also commonly known as 'Siberian ginseng' or 'eleuthero root'. The root of the plant is used in traditional medicine for its purported ability to improve physical and mental performance, boost the immune system, and reduce fatigue. It is also claimed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Eleuthero is often referred to as an 'adaptogen'. Adaptogens are believed to help the body resist stress. It is important to note that although eleuthero is known as 'Siberian ginseng', it is not related to Panax ginseng.

Mangosteen is a tropical fruit known for its sweet, tangy flavor and deep purple rind. It is revered for its potential health benefits due to its rich content of antioxidants and nutrients. In dietary supplements, mangosteen is often marketed for its alleged anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties, though scientific evidence supporting these claims is limited and further research is needed.

Apricots are a type of fruit native to China and have been cultivated for thousands of years. They are typically small and orange in color, and have a sweet and slightly tart flavor. Apricots are a good source of vitamins A and C, potassium, and dietary fiber. They are also a source of antioxidants, which may help to protect the body from damage by harmful molecules known as free radicals. Apricot is used in dietary supplements as both the whole fruit and seeds (i.e., kernels). Apricot kernels have a separate monograph.

An apple is a type of fruit that grows on apple trees. They are a common and popular food, known for their sweet, tangy flavor and crisp texture. Apples come in a wide range of colors, including green, red, yellow, and pink, and are often eaten fresh or used in cooking. Apples have been purported to have a number of potential health benefits, as they are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are also rich in antioxidants, which may help to protect against certain chronic diseases. In addition, apples may have a number of medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Grapes are widely grown and cultivated for a variety of uses such as for food and beverage making (e.g., wine). They also have a long history of use in traditional medicine. The fruit and skin of grapes contain various compounds that are believed to have health benefits, including antioxidants such as resveratrol and flavonoids. These compounds may help to protect cells from damage and are purported to reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases. Grapes and grape products may also have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to reduce inflammation in the body and potentially improve symptoms of certain conditions. Grape seed extracts are also commonly used as a dietary supplement and are often standardized according to the content of polyphenols or proanthocyanidins.

Acaí berries are a type of fruit native to the Amazon region of Brazil and grow on the açaí palm tree (Euterpe oleracea). Açaí berries are small, round, and dark purple in color and have a sweet, slightly earthy flavor. Açaí berries are rich in antioxidants, fiber, and heart-healthy fats. They are also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, and calcium. Açaí berries are often marketed as a superfood due to their high antioxidant content, which may help to reduce inflammation and protect against certain diseases. Acai dietary supplements are consumed for their purported health effects and have been marketed to help improve energy levels, boost the immune system, and promote weight loss.

Grapes are widely grown and cultivated for a variety of uses such as for food and beverage making (e.g., wine). They also have a long history of use in traditional medicine. The fruit and skin of grapes contain various compounds that are believed to have health benefits, including antioxidants such as resveratrol and flavonoids. These compounds may help to protect cells from damage and are purported to reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases. Grapes and grape products may also have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to reduce inflammation in the body and potentially improve symptoms of certain conditions. Grape seed extracts are also commonly used as a dietary supplement and are often standardized according to the content of polyphenols or proanthocyanidins.