THE SECRET WITHIN THE BERRY
Dr. Timothy Hollingshead | July 16, 2010Acai drinks are promoted for their antioxidant value and support of one’s health. But the secret of this little purple date palm fruit from the Amazon is found within the berry. Some think the seed from the Acai has secret health properties: it does not. It has no nutritional value nor does it have value in helping your skin. The real secret to the Acai berry is the oil. Yes, Acai oil has naturally occurring oil in it that is healthy for your insides and your outsides.
Acai oil contains Omega 3, 6 & 9 however the amounts of omega 3 are so small that it really does not constitute a significant source of that fatty acid. The oil occurs naturally within the Acai fruit or Acai date palm berry. The acai oil is not cold pressed as so, many unknowing marketers claim. Acai skin and pulp which includes the oil is separated from the very large single seed found within the acai berry. It is separated by first soaking the berries in warm water then pushing them through a machine that literally beats the skin and flesh off of the seed. This makes a very dark purple almost black porridge or pudding like consistency pulp or “polpa”. This polpa is then quickly frozen.
In some cases the acai oil is extracted from the polpa and used separately. The oil is green in color and is healthier than virgin olive oil. The true test of any Acai drink is to look for the green oil that floats to the top and forms a ring sometimes staining the top of the container. The taste is similar to virgin olive oil with an earthy grass tone. The oil is safe to consume and contributes to the overall nutritional profile of the Acai berry juice. It is also used in bath and body products.
Omega 9 fatty acids are considered useful in lowering cholesterol levels, reducing atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries, reducing insulin resistance and improving or moderating blood glucose levels, improving immune function and even providing protection against some cancers.
Omega 6 fatty acids are considered useful in helping with acne, eczema and psoriasis, allergies, helps prevent peripheral neuropathy or nerve disease associated with diabetes, lower blood pressure, alleviating menopausal hot flashes, improve bone health and losing weight.
Acai berry oil properties include moisturizing, restoration of the skins natural elasticity, protection from free radical damage, anti-bacterial, rich in B vitamins, rich in essential fatty acids, phytosterols and anthocyanins. Acai berry oil is good for both topical application and internal consumption. It is recommended for softening mature aging skin, skin that is damaged by the sun and wind, acne, eczema, anti-inflammation and heart health. Acai berry oil is a secret to younger looking more healthy skin and a healthy heart to match.
Acai Juice This article, THE SECRET WITHIN THE BERRY is released under a creative commons attribution licence.





