Acai capsules are sold as a dietary supplement and contain the dried powder of pulp obtained from acai berries. There are numerous health claims associated with capsules. These include the prevention of heart disease and cancer, and improving gastrointestinal ailments, diabetes, fertility, and immune disorders, such as allergies. Most recently, acai berry products have been promoted as a weight loss aid. While none of these claims have been officially approved by the Federal Drug Administration in the U.S. or the Commission E in Europe, there is some evidence to suggest that supplementing with acai capsules may provide some health-giving benefits.

Acia (Euterpe oleraceae) is a type of palm tree native to South America that produces a small dark purple fruit or berry called a drupe. While this tree grows quite prolifically on its own, increased demand for the fruit pulp has led to extensive cultivation. In its native region, acai berry is a common food staple, as well as a popular flavoring for beverages, cereals, and even ice cream. In North America, the popularity of the fruit as a dietary supplement has led to the expansion from marketing acai capsules to acai-fortified fruit drinks and powdered drink mixes.

The primary constituents of acai berries are bioflavonoids, namely anthocyanins and proanthocyanidins. The fruit also contains several amino and essential fatty acids, such as oleic acid, palmitic acid, and linoleic acid. In addition, acai berry is a natural source of vitamins B and C, as well as calcium and fiber.

The medicinal value of the acai berry is greatly attributed to the antioxidant properties of anthocyanins. In fact, a few initial studies have shown that these agents are capable of inhibiting free radicals in vitro,, meaning this effect can be seen in a controlled environment outside of the body. Similar studies have demonstrated that acai may reduce inflammation. The botanical also appears to reduce nitric oxide levels, inhibit cyclooxygenases, and trigger apoptosis, or cellular death, of leukemia cells. These findings indicate that this palm and its fruit are worthy of further clinical investigation.

Since there have been little studies to date that directly involve humans, it is not known if there are any potential risks from consuming acai capsules or other acai products. However, there have been reports from consumers that a mildly bitter taste may be experienced. In addition, current clinical findings point toward the potential for the antioxidant effects of this dietary supplement to interfere with chemotherapy drugs. In terms of efficacy, the best form of supplementation is thought to be the freeze-dried pulp of the berry.