Medicinal uses of the Acai Berry

The hype around the acai berry is perfectly justified. This small purple berry is touted as the wonder berry with all its various medicinal properties which helps to maintain a healthy body. The acai berry can be instrumental in solving a host of bodily dysfunctions from digestive problems to prevention of heart diseases.
The acai berry was used in traditional medicines for ages. It was a regular part of the poor man’s diet and helped to maintain health and prevent problems. The oil of the berry was used to treat diarrhea and the root grind was used as a tropical wash to treat skin ulcers. The root was used to treat jaundice while the seeds were crushed and used to treat fevers in Brazilian herbal medicine. In the Peruvian Amazonian traditions the seeds were toasted and used as medicine for fevers, a root decoction was used to treat malaria, diabetes, menstrual pain and muscle pain.
The acai berry is seen as the perfect supplement to keep bodies in top physical condition. The presence of high levels of essential fatty acids and Omega 9 and 6 acids in the acai berry has proven to lower cholesterol levels. The fibres in the berry enable increased blood circulation which helps in the distribution of nutrients and disposal of wastes keeping the intestines in healthy condition. Anthocynanin in the berry is known for its heart health benefits thus strengthening the cardiovascular system. This compound is also known to prevent premature ageing.
The acai berry also helps in muscle contraction and regeneration as it contains an essential amino acid complex along with trace minerals. The fatty acid ratio in the berry resembles that of olive oil making it a useful supplement in warding off heart disease. Theobromine, present in the berry aids in the open passage of air through the lungs as it acts as a bronchial dilator. This enables an increase in oxygen intake which increases strength and endurance.

The acai berry also acts as a detoxifying agent as it helps remove harmful toxins and waste from the body thus helping to maintain good health. This also helps in weight loss as toxins can create a hurdle in losing weight. The acai berry is found to have high levels of phenols and anti-mutagenic compounds which improve the immune system making the body less susceptible to disease and illness. Similarly, the free radicals and minerals that are present in the berry help to build muscle and skin elasticity. It is also believed that the acai berry can help in avoiding cancer due to its detoxifying properties. Thus it seems the acai berry is indeed an all star.