First Uses of the Acai Berry

The history behind the use of the acai berry is very interesting to many people. One reason why is many people are astounded by the fact that the use of this precious commodity dates back further than most people realize.

First Uses

One of the first uses of this fruit was in cooking. The ancient Amazon tribes would take this fruit and make it into a sauce that they would put over meat or fish entrees. This fruit was later made into a sorbet, a frozen treat which is eaten by many people, and enjoyed as much as sherbet, ice cream, or other frozen deserts.

This was one way in which local Brazilian received their daily vitamin and antioxidant supply. This time-tested source of nutrition is still consumed today.

Use Today

In places such as Belem, Brazil this fruit is still used today. In fact, it is reported that people consume it on a daily basis here. This valuable commodity is one that usually accompanies entrees such as river fish or is prepared with toasted cassava.

It is very common in this area, and is considered a “poor man’s staple” here versus a rare commodity. It is in the western hemisphere of the world where this precious fruit is most appreciated, because it is not as readily available in its freshest forms in this half of the world.

For people living in North America, Central America, or even Europe the preferred way to consume this superfood is to purchase it as a frozen or freeze-dried pulp. The freeze-dried variety has a shelf life of about three years. This makes it easy for people halfway across the world from the Amazon to experience the full benefit of it.

Additional Historic Uses

This product was also historically used by Amazon medicine men and women as an antiseptic. It was often applied to wounds in order to help people recover from them more quickly. This is one reason why athletes today consume high concentrations of this fruit.

This fruit has also become more well-known over the years as an alternative form of energy supply. It contains a healthy dose of natural carbohydrates and natural sugars that the body needs.

In more recent years, this fruit is becoming more popular as a way to control blood sugar, cholesterol, and heart rate. It is taken for this reason in capsule, powder, or fresh form. The omega oils are part of what helps regulate these bodily systems, and as a result risk of diabetes, heart failure, or high blood pressure is reduced.

Today this fruit is also used as an immune builder. As a result users experience less viral, bacterial, and fungal sicknesses. Users are also less likely to get cancer.

The Vast amounts of antioxidants found within acai are most responsible for keeping the body healthy. The value of specific products is largely determined by the way it is processed.

Generally speaking, the fresh and freeze-dried varieties of this fruit contain the most Anthocyanins, which is one antioxidant responsible for this fruit’s rich purple color. These agents as well as the presence of other flavonoid and flavonoid-like compounds are what makes the acai berry so valuable.