The Acai Berry Timeline

The usefulness of the acai berry was first discovered thousands of years ago by historic Amazon tribes. The use of this fruit was for a long time limited to the local area.

However, in more recent years methods of processing have helped this fruit achieve superfood status. This precious commodity is now known throughout the world.

Early Historical Use of this Fruit

It used to be hand-picked by Shuar medicine men and women. These individuals worked in the capacity of an uwishin whose main responsibility was to deal with medicinal plants.

This was a very important title, just as important as the ones given to modern-day doctors. It was after the use of medicinal plants during this time that it was evident that this particular Brazilian palm has the ability to control cholesterol levels.

The early Amazon people also knew that this plant could help build up the body’s immune system and protect the heart. It also became increasingly evident that this product can help fight infection and prevent spread of serious illnesses.

In later years this fruit became known as a natural Viagra. In addition, it started to receive recognition as a natural source of energy, as well as a substance known to help prevent enlargement of the prostate.

The 1950s to 1980s

This is the period of time when modern-day doctors first discovered the health benefits of the acai berry. By the 1980s refrigerated trucks were used for the first time to transport this fruit to locations further away than the immediate Amazon region.

Transport of this berry by this time had reached as far as Rio during this time. This is when the use of this fruit in smoothies, ice creams, and cocktails became very popular.

The 1990s to Present

This is the decade during which the acai berry was introduced to the western world. As soon as it was introduced to the western hemisphere news of the benefits of this fruit spread like wildfire.

By the early 2000s, this fruit had become more popular in the United States. The health benefits associated with the acai berry are further being explored. Furthermore, new lower-fat products such as sorbets are being created with this fruit. Additionally, new cocktail recipes and summer refreshment recipes have been formulated that involve using this fruit.

In 2006, additional strides have been made concerning studies of cancer prevention and the acai berry. One very important breakthrough was a study of the affect of this fruit on leukemia cells.

A total of seven different concentrates of lab solutions had been created. These were tested on lab cells to see if they would possibly destroy abnormal growths in the body. In one study, up to 86 percent of in vitro cancer cells were self-destructed.

What this means in regards to treating leukemia patients is yet very much unknown. However, it has brought the world one step closer to a cure of this condition. This study of the acai berry also provides a small amount of hope to other cancer patients.