Acai is a small, round, purplish-black fruit found in the rainforests of Brazil. It grows in bunches on palm trees that can be up to 82 feet (25 m) tall. Though it grows in bunches, like bananas, it does not grow ready to eat. Rather, the acai is extracted from the pulp of harvested berries. The benefits of acai come from consuming the extracted pulp.

Traditionally, the Brazilians of the Amazon noted the numerous benefits of acai in treating sexual dysfunction, insomnia, digestive problems, and skin irritation. Their use of the fruit in this way gave birth to its reputation as a healing agent. Acai was also originally used for flavoring meats or drinks. In Northern Brazil, acai is customarily served with tapioca in a gourd called a cuia. The South Brazilians serve acai na tigela, or “acai in the bowl” cold, with granola.

Once the word about the healing properties of acai got out, North Americans began to study the berry more. One of the most well known benefits of acai is its energy boosting properties. Additionally, acai is known for its high content of antioxidants, amino acids and essential fatty acids.

The antioxidants in the berry fight premature aging with bite; it has ten times more antioxidants than red grapes. Furthermore, the essential fatty acids in acai help omega-3 fish oils penetrate our cell membranes, creating resilient cell membranes that help insulin receptors function efficiently. This efficient functioning keeps insulin levels low, and therefore, reduces inflammation that causes aging.

However, the health and healing benefits of acai do not stop with anti-aging. The berry is also high in monounsaturated fats, the simple fats that are high in vitamin E and help lower bad cholesterol levels, and dietary fibers. Both the monounsaturated fats and dietary fibers support cardiovascular and digestive health.

The most often noted health benefits of acai include increased energy, improved mental clarity, sounder sleep, cleansing, enhanced sex-drive, aging defying, cancer fighting, reduced inflammation, improved circulation, eased diabetes, and helping to maintain a healthy heart. All in all, it is often spoken of as a miracle food with endless health benefits. It’s even said to improve eyesight.

Since the berry cannot be eaten fresh off the tree, the fruit is not the easiest to take in. Many gourmet food stores will sell a sugary juice form of the berry. However, there is also an unsweetened pulp available. For very easy intake, the health benefits of acai are packed neatly into pills and powders.

The powders are a great way to get the benefits of acai as they can be added to almost anything. One recipe for a healing, healthy meal is to blend a banana in a blender, add 200g (seven oz) of acai powder, a splash of apple juice or soymilk, and blend thick. Pour the mixture into a bowl and garnish with granola and sliced bananas for a delicious treat that does more than please; it heals!