Acai Berry: Good Things in a Small Package!
What is the Acai Berry?
Most people don’t know that Acai berries are really 90% seed and 10% skin. The berry, when fresh, has a dark purple color. Acai berry grows wild on palm trees in the rainforest region of Brazil, near the Amazon River. Historically, Brazilians have called the juice of Acai berry “the milk of the Amazon,” and used Acai berry to soothe digestive disorders and skin conditions. Acai berries are gaining popularity around the world as a potent source of antioxidants - they boast 10 times the antioxidants of grapes and twice that of blueberries. In fact, Acai berries are believed to have the highest concentration of antioxidants of any edible berry in the world.
The Acai berry is considered a powerhouse among berries not only because it is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, but because it is high in Omega 3,6, &9 as well (the healthy fatty acids!). These work to strengthen the body’s defenses against disease, and they also work to lessen the effect of free radicals, which, in turn, prevents cellular damage. Because of this, the Acai berry may have some wonderful anti-aging properties. Although low in calories, the Acai berry provides plenty of vitamin C and E and is a wonderful source of calcium.
The Origin and History of Acai
Found growing deep in the jungles of Brazil and Peru, Acai is a berry that grows in large clusters on a type of palm tree. Once the berry is picked, the fruit is extracted from it during a process which separates the seeds and pulp.
The Indians of the Amazon were probably the first to discover the value of the Acai berry. It was first used by their medicine men as a cure for many health issues, ranging from infertility to inflammation of the joints. Later, it became a staple in several of the tribal diets. It remained a hidden treasure of these jungle tribes for centuries.
The Acai berry was relatively unknown in the western world until the 1990’s. Then, it burst on the scene with great fanfare. As scientists discovered its beneficial effects on the human body, products made from the Acai fruit began to appear in health food stores, and the new “superfruit” was trumpeted on daytime talk shows and radio programs being backed by the likes of Oprah and Dr. Oz. By the turn of the century, the amazing Acai berry made the headlines in national papers and magazines.
Current Study of Acai
Researchers are still discovering new ways this berry might benefit the human body. The Acai fruit reportedly contains antibiotic properties and is an excellent source of energy. Currently, it is also said to be beneficial in preventing heart disease, lowering cholesterol, and controlling prostate enlargement. Scientists are also looking at the anthocyanin content of the acai berry. This antioxidant ingredient may improve circulation and fight inflammation. At this time, scientists are also studying the effect of the Acai berry on staph infections.
|
