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Acai

Scientific Names

Acai Tree

Acai Berries

• Euterpe oleraceae

Common Names

Acai berry
Acai palm
Cabbage palm
Palm berry
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Parts Usually Used

Berries
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Description of Plant(s) and Culture

The acai plam tree grows to a height of up to 60 feet. The berries are about the size of blueberries and are dark purple. The taste is a cross between chocolate and red wine.
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Where Found

Acai berries grow on the acai palm tree that grows in the Brazilian ranforests.
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Medicinal Properties

In vitro and in vivo studies have shown that acai has antiinflammatory, antioxidant, and apoptotic effects.
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Biochemical Information

• Acai Fruit
  • Flavonoids: Anthocyanins (ACNs), Proanthocyanidins (PACs)
  • Fatty acids: Oleic acid, Palmitic acid, Linoleic acid
• Acai Seed
  • Procyanidins, Protocatechruic acid, Epicatechin
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Uses

Acai has shown promising results instudies as an atioxidant,an anti-inflamatory and it seems to help prevent cancer. It also seems promising in tests as an MRI contrast agent.
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How Sold

Juice & capsules
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Warning

Acai may interact harmfully with other cancer-fighting medications, and if you are on chemotherapy, it could interfere with the chemo medications. Consult your oncologist befoer taking acai.
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Resource Links

LiveStrong.com: Acai Berry and Insomnia

LiveStrong.com: Acai Berry & Skin

LiveStrong.com: Acai Berry & Acne

eHow.com: Acai Berry Supplement Facts

LiveStrong.com: Herbs to Fade Discoloration

AgriLife News: Acai Research

Medical News Today: Acai Facts

University of Florida News: Acai Berry

Memorial Sloan-Kettering Medical Center: Acai

PubMed.gov: Innovations in natural ingredients and their use in skin care.

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