The plant Acai is a palm tree which is native in South America. It has a slender body and its heart of palm is eaten like a vegetable. In addition to its trunk wood, this plant is cultivated mainly because of its fruits called the acai berries. In fact, acai berries are so in demand not only in America but across the globe. Researchers say this miraculous fruit is rich in calories, carbohydrates, protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals.
Health Benefits and the Many Uses of Acai
Originally in South America, fresh acai berries are treated as an ordinary dietary staple since time immemorial. In North America, on the other hand, this kind of berry is commonly eaten with nuts, fruits, and oatmeal for breakfast. However a few years ago, it was found out that this fruit can be used in many more ways than being a food. This fruit can be processed into a juice or smoothie, can be used as an ingredient for different beverages, can be a food supplement, and can even be the main component of cosmetic products like the popular acai mask. Acai as a Potent Dietary Supplement: Many individuals believe acai is effective for weight loss and in promoting the overall health. Acai is increasingly becoming popular in the market these days because it is known to have the most antioxidant content as compared to other berries such as blueberry, cranberry or strawberry. The body needs to have high amounts of antioxidants because they keep our cells healthy. Antioxidants also boost the immune system. Furthermore, antioxidants help get rid of free radicals. As a result, there is a reduced risk of diseases. A study in Florida found out that extracts of the acai berries were able to kill leukaemia cells within one day.
Acai as a Cosmetic Product: These tiny, little, round, and purple berries are believed to be the ?fountain of youth’. While ageing is a natural process, beauty-conscious individuals can defy it through the use of beauty products like acai mask.
Acai berry face masks contain acai oil. This oil exfoliates and invigorates the skin because itis super-rich in vitamins A, B, C, D and E. Vitamin A stimulates the production of new skin cells and vitamin B helps prevent cracked lips, dry skin and skin rashes. Vitamin C gives a firmer and even-toned skin while vitamin D helps reduce skin inflammation and keeps you from skin irritation. Vitamin E, on the other hand, is a powerful antioxidant that has the ability to absorb harmful ultraviolet rays we normally get when exposed to the sun for long hours. When buying acai mask, never make price the basis of efficacy.
Not because it is the most expensive brand in beauty stores then it is really the best out there. As much as possible, opt for a product that is 100% natural. This means there are no added chemicals and preservatives that may be harmful if you have sensitive skin. If you have not used acai mask before and don’t know which brand to buy, they might as well read honest reviews from real people. You also have to know first what your skin type is. For example, if your face is naturally oily, then avoid masks with moisturizers.
Aside from acai mask, there are also acai berry face and body creams, shampoos and conditioners. As a tip, always read the label on the bottle of every cosmetic product you buy and avoid those that contain paraben. Paraben is a preservative commonly used in beauty products that when used in large amounts, may be toxic to the body cells.
Acai as an Ingredient for Cooking: Because of its nutritional content, acai can be found in every kitchen these days. It is so versatile that you can eat acai bowl to jumpstart your day and you can prepare a fresh salad with acai oil for dinner – sealing the night in a healthy way! Aside from breakfast, lunch or dinner, you can also eat acai berries as in-between snacks. There are many recipes on the internet on how you can incorporate this power fruit to have a healthy meal.
Like the coconut tree, the acai plant, in general, can be used in many different ways. Weaving the leaves can give you baskets and hats. The trunk wood can be used for building small houses. Most of all, the fruits can be made into something that can nourish the body in a safe way.
No wonder there is an unbelievable demand for acai in the market nowadays. Indeed, there are many ways to incorporate acai in your life so try them all out!
