Vitamin C is one of the essential nutrients for our body. Oranges and lemons are rich in this vitamin, but Australian forests hide an unexpected source of ascorbic acid.

It is the kakadu plum, also known as gubinge, or green plum, the fruit of the Terminalia Ferdinandiana tree. Aboriginal Australians have cultivated this fruit, known for its healing properties, for more than 50,000 years.

In addition to being delicious, the kakadu plum stands out for its high content of vitamin C: it provides up to five grams per 100 grams of fruit, approximately 100 times more than an orange. 

It is rich in antioxidants and folic acid, which helps prevent premature aging of the skin and the body in general. It also has gallic acid, prized for its antibacterial properties, and ellagic acid, which reduces inflammation and may even protect you against cancer.

ANSTO’s nuclear analytical techniques can ensure that traditional Aboriginal food & other products, such as the Kakadu Plum, are authenticated in partnership with Northern Australia Aboriginal Kakadu Plum Alliance #ScienceWeek https://t.co/tU2G3gXiqK @IPAustralia #Blockchain

— ANSTO (@ANSTO) August 16, 2021

Thanks to its peculiar composition, the kakadu plum is very popular in the cosmetic industry. More and more brands add its extract to their products, from creams to shampoos, and it is that it helps fight wrinkles and hydrate the skin and hair.