# Gubinge **Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/gubinge **Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia **Updated:** 2026-03-18 **Evidence Score:** 4 / 10 **Category:** Fruit **Also Known As:** Terminalia ferdinandiana, Kakadu Plum, Billy Goat Plum, Green Plum, Salty Plum, Murunga, Marnybi ## Overview Gubinge (Terminalia ferdinandiana) is an Australian native fruit containing the world's highest recorded levels of vitamin C, reaching up to 100 times more than oranges. The fruit's exceptional ascorbic acid content, combined with ellagic and gallic acids, provides potent [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) and [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects. ## Health Benefits - Provides exceptionally high levels of vitamin C, supporting immune defense and [collagen synthesis](/ingredients/condition/skin-health). - Exhibits potent [antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) that helps reduce oxidative stress and protect against cellular damage. - Contains ellagic and gallic acids, which contribute to [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) and [antimicrobial](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) effects. - Supports skin health, wound healing, and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases associated with inflammation and oxidative stress. ## Mechanism of Action Gubinge's exceptionally high ascorbic acid content (up to 5,300mg per 100g) enhances neutrophil function and stimulates interferon production for immune defense. Ellagic acid activates the Nrf2 pathway, upregulating [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) enzymes like [glutathione](/ingredients/condition/detox) peroxidase and catalase. Gallic acid inhibits [pro-inflammatory cytokine](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)s including TNF-α and IL-6 through NF-κB pathway suppression. ## Clinical Summary Limited human studies exist for gubinge specifically, with most research focused on vitamin C content analysis rather than clinical outcomes. One small pilot study (n=20) showed improved [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) status after 4 weeks of gubinge supplementation. In vitro studies demonstrate strong DPPH radical scavenging activity (IC50 values around 15-25 μg/mL) and [antimicrobial](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) effects against certain pathogens. More robust clinical trials are needed to establish therapeutic efficacy and optimal dosing protocols. ## Nutritional Profile - Vitamin C: up to 100 times higher than oranges; essential for immune and skin function. - Ellagic acid and gallic acid: polyphenols with powerful [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant), [antimicrobial](/ingredients/condition/immune-support), and [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects. - Additional antioxidants: support systemic health and resilience. Detailed compositional analysis of Gubinge shows the presence of essential micronutrients including B-vitamins (thiamin, riboflavin, niacin), fat-soluble vitamins, and a mineral profile including potassium, phosphorus, and trace elements. The total dietary fiber fraction includes both soluble and insoluble components contributing to satiety and gut health. ## Dosage & Preparation Recommended Dosage: Fresh: Consume 1-2 servings (about 150g) daily as part of a balanced diet. Powder: Mix 1-2 teaspoons (3-6g) into smoothies, yogurt, or beverages. Dried: 30-50g daily as a nutrient-dense snack. Traditional Use & Preparation: Traditionally eaten fresh by Indigenous Australians during the wet season and dried for storage. Also used in traditional medicine, including the bark and gum. In modern applications, consumed as jams, chutneys, sauces, and increasingly as powdered or concentrated supplements. Dosage: Consume fresh or in preserves; for supplements, follow package instructions or include regularly in a balanced diet. General Guidance: Start with a lower dose and increase gradually. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if pregnant, nursing, or taking medications. ## Safety & Drug Interactions Gubinge is generally well-tolerated as a food, but high vitamin C intake may cause gastrointestinal upset, diarrhea, or kidney stone formation in susceptible individuals. The fruit may enhance iron absorption, potentially problematic for those with hemochromatosis. High doses could theoretically interfere with vitamin B12 absorption and certain chemotherapy treatments. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult healthcare providers before using concentrated gubinge supplements. ## Scientific Research Supported by multiple studies affirming its unmatched vitamin C concentration and [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) capacity. Research also confirms its [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) and [antimicrobial](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) properties due to phenolic content. Recognized as one of the most nutrient-dense fruits globally. ## Historical & Cultural Context Gubinge, also known as Kakadu Plum, has been revered by Indigenous Australians for millennia as both food and medicine. Its traditional and spiritual significance endures, with continued use across culinary, nutritional, and healing contexts. ## Synergistic Combinations Hermetica Synergy Stack (Formulation Heuristic) Role: Polyphenol/[antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) base (innate energy support) Intention: Immune & [Inflammation](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) | Mood & Stress Primary Pairings: Turmeric (Curcuma longa); Camu Camu; Ginger (Zingiber officinale); Maca Root (Lepidium meyenii) Notes (from original entry): Lemon, Lime, Honey, Ginger Evidence: see study_urls / reference_urls ## Frequently Asked Questions ### How much vitamin C is in gubinge compared to oranges? Gubinge contains 2,300-5,300mg of vitamin C per 100g of fresh fruit, which is 50-100 times higher than oranges. This makes it the richest known natural source of vitamin C on Earth. ### What is the recommended dosage for gubinge supplements? No standardized dosage exists due to limited clinical research. Traditional use suggests 1-3g of dried fruit powder daily, providing approximately 500-1500mg of vitamin C, though individual tolerance may vary. ### Can gubinge cause kidney stones from too much vitamin C? Excessive vitamin C intake above 2000mg daily may increase oxalate production and kidney stone risk in susceptible individuals. Those with history of kidney stones should limit gubinge intake and maintain adequate hydration. ### Does gubinge lose vitamin C content when processed or dried? Fresh gubinge has the highest vitamin C content, with significant losses occurring during drying and processing. Freeze-dried preparations retain more vitamin C than heat-dried products, typically maintaining 60-80% of original levels. ### Is gubinge safe to take with blood thinning medications? High vitamin C doses may theoretically affect warfarin metabolism, though clinical significance is unclear. Patients on anticoagulants should consult their healthcare provider before using gubinge supplements and monitor INR levels if needed. ### What is the most bioavailable form of gubinge supplement? Fresh or minimally processed gubinge fruit provides the highest bioavailability of vitamin C and polyphenolic compounds, as heat and processing can degrade these sensitive nutrients. Freeze-dried gubinge powder preserves most bioactive compounds better than heat-dried forms, making it a superior supplemental option when fresh fruit is unavailable. Liquid extracts may offer faster absorption but often contain added ingredients that can affect overall efficacy. ### Is gubinge safe for children and during pregnancy? Gubinge is generally recognized as safe for children in age-appropriate amounts due to its natural fruit source, though supplemental forms should be discussed with a pediatrician first. During pregnancy, the high vitamin C content in gubinge can support maternal health and fetal development, but pregnant women should consult their healthcare provider about appropriate intake levels to avoid exceeding safe upper limits. Breastfeeding mothers can typically consume gubinge safely, as vitamin C passes into breast milk and supports infant immune function. ### Who benefits most from gubinge supplementation? Individuals with high oxidative stress, compromised immune function, or those seeking enhanced collagen synthesis for skin and joint health are ideal candidates for gubinge supplementation. People with limited access to fresh fruits, those recovering from wounds or surgery, and individuals looking to reduce inflammation or support antioxidant defenses may experience notable benefits. Athletes and those exposed to environmental stressors can leverage gubinge's potent antioxidant profile to support cellular recovery and reduce exercise-induced oxidative damage. ## References No verified citations available --- *Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com* *License: CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 — Attribution required. Commercial use: admin@hermeticasuperfoods.com*