There's no doubt that fruit is a valuable part of any diet, but some fruits pack more of a punch than others. The Brazilian acai berry, sometimes referred to as Amazon acai, is one such fruit touted as having wonderful properties. Acai berries are the fruit of the acai palm, a tree native to the humid climates of South and Central America. It is harvested from the same tree as the vegetable known as heart of palm, and for years was used as flavoring in local specialty food and drink. Brazilian acai, which means “weeping fruit,” has taken off as a health supplement as well.

Manufacturers of acai fruit supplements claim that it helps with every problem from cancer and weak immune systems to diabetes, stress and weight loss. While Brazilian acai is a fruit extremely high in antioxidants, fiber and fatty acids, claims of certain other health benefits are still unproven. Preliminary laboratory testing has shown there may be a link between the benefits of Brazilian acai and the body's ability to protect cells from certain diseases, but there has been no conclusive link reported.

Brazilian acai supplements come in a variety of forms, with pills and capsules the most common. Acai smoothies, powders and occasionally freeze-dried fruits are also available through health food stores. Raw acai berries are often described as tasting bitter and grainy, since the acai fruit contains very little pulp and is comprised primarily of seeds. Raw Brazilian acai is generally harder to come by in supermarkets, since the fruit spoils very quickly once harvested and may be easily damaged during transit to market.

The overall side effects of acai berries are largely unknown, although it is thought that they might cause complications in individuals with high blood pressure, bleeding problems and ulcers. Also, Brazilian acai may interact adversely with certain medications, such as some of the medications used in chemotherapy treatment as well as over-the-counter pain medications. It is advised that persons wanting to start acai supplements speak to their doctors or healthcare providers beforehand about whether it is right for them.

Acai berries are considered a relative of fruits like blueberries, cranberries and other dark blue or purple fruits. The link between them is the chemical anthocyanin, which creates the bright hue of the fruits. People who are sensitive to those fruits may have an allergic reaction. Also, because of their bright color, the berries and the supplements made from them may interfere with the contrast dye employed in certain scans, such as an MRI.