When was this fruit discovered and why is it so good for you?

The jungles and rivers of one of the world’s most important lungs, the “Amazon” or “Amazonia holds the mightiest rivers in America, connecting Peru, Colombia, Bolivia and French Guiana. Within it, grows a fruit that could almost be considered sacred for its beneficial qualities for our body and surely for other animals in the jungle. This berry is called “Açai” in Portuguese, pronounced assaí, grows from the black branches of a palm that can grow up to 25 meters, called “Açaizeros”. 

Açai is known and originally used by natives in the various communities north of the Brazilian jungle. For example, they traditionally consume it in the form of a malted frost combined with a natural flour extracted from “mandioca” or “natural tapioca”, extracted from the roots of a type of bush that also grows in the region. Others prepare roasted piranha to accompany a serving of açai.

At the beginning of the 80’s, this fruit circulated in the northern region of Brazil, making a great difference in food and local gastronomic culture. In the next decade, it was introduced in the national market, and became popular in South America. Later on, Nicholas Perricone, a dermatologist from the US, was featured on the talk show “Oprah” by Oprah Winfrey, where he explained the benefits of the fruit or “Berry” Amazon. Thus becoming the most consumed Brazilian fruits in the United States and the world by the people who know it by its medicinal faculties and its health benefits.

Studies claim the presence of a high content of antioxidants that offer the ability to lower cholesterol levels in the blood, among its properties is to strengthen cardiovascular cells, which prevent blood clots, relaxing blood vessels and improving circulation in general. The contribution of vitamin E, Omega-3, 6 and 9 reduce the possibility of heart problems and attack different types of cancer cells. It also helps slow down the body’s natural aging processes, leaving healthier and stronger cells for those who enjoy its benefits.

Açai also contributes extra energy and physical stamina, combats fatigue and post fatigue or post exercise fatigue, this berry is a true source of natural energy because of its carbohydrate content which in its excess could not be as beneficial to health and can increase the chances of weight gain and develop symptoms of diabetes. If you exercise and do continuous physical training this fruit will become a great ally. Also, aside from being an aphrodisiac since it increases libido especially for men, it helps to regulate menopause disorders in women.

This past decade, several companies have been created that distribute the product to different countries such as Mexico, the United States, Spain, Colombia, among others. It is sold in frozen pasta, dehydrated berries, juices, and energy products. That speaks of the diversity of consumers who are already faithful with the benefits of this fruit from the Amazon rainforest.

Latin American Post | Aldo Leal Larroa

Copy edited by Laura Rocha Rueda