What is Acai?
The acai palm tree ( Euterpe oleracea ) is native to tropical Central and South America and grows mainly in floodplains and swamps. Although the soft interior stem can be used as a source for heart of palm, acai is better known for its inch-long reddish-purple fruit. Currently, research on acai fruit has been centered on its potential antioxidant properties. Acai fruit has also shown antiproliferative and anti-inflammatory activity in vitro . Currently, there is insufficient available eviden...
Side Effects
"Blocked nose," chest pain, decreased sperm (infertility), diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, enlarged lymph glands, fatigue, headache, increased risk of bleeding, lowered blood pressure, lowered blood sugar, nasal discharge, nausea, stomachache, vomiting.
Reactions / Interactions
Allergy medications, anticoagulants and anti-platelets (blood thinners), antidiabetic agents (blood sugar-altering medications, insulin), antihypertensives (blood pressure medications), anti-inflammatory agents, antineoplastic (anticancer) agents, antiviral agents, fertility agents, immunomodulators, and herbs and supplements with similar effects.
What is Acai?
The acai palm tree (Euterpe oleracea) is native to tropical Central and South America and grows mainly in floodplains and swamps. Although the soft interior stem can be used as a source for heart of palm, acai is better known for its inch-long reddish-purple fruit. Currently, research on acai fruit has been centered on its potential antioxidant properties. Acai fruit has also shown antiproliferative and anti-inflammatory activity in vitro. Currently, there is insufficient available evidence in humans to support the use of acai for any indication.
Side Effects
"Blocked nose," chest pain, decreased sperm (infertility), diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, enlarged lymph glands, fatigue, headache, increased risk of bleeding, lowered blood pressure, lowered blood sugar, nasal discharge, nausea, stomachache, vomiting.
Reactions / Interactions
Allergy medications, anticoagulants and anti-platelets (blood thinners), antidiabetic agents (blood sugar-altering medications, insulin), antihypertensives (blood pressure medications), anti-inflammatory agents, antineoplastic (anticancer) agents, antiviral agents, fertility agents, immunomodulators, and herbs and supplements with similar effects.
Safety
Three cases of anaphylactic reactions, including one case of shock, have been reported to the World Health Organization Collaborating Center for International Drug Monitoring as of June 2003. Avoid with infertility or patients actively trying to conceive. Use cautiously with diabetes, bleeding disorders, and high or low blood pressure. Use cautiously with blood sugar-altering medications, warfarin or other blood thinning medications, and blood pressure-altering medications. Avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding.
Dosage
Adult (18 years and older):
Adults (18 years and older):
Oral (taken by mouth):
High cholesterol: 5g has been taken twice daily.
Plague: An Acacia arabica chewing stick has been used daily.
Children (younger than 18 years)
Not enough scientific data available.
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While some complementary and alternative techniques have been studied scientifically, high-quality data regarding safety, effectiveness, and mechanism of action are limited or controversial for most therapies. Whenever possible, it is recommended that practitioners be licensed by a recognized professional organization that adheres to clearly published standards. In addition, before starting a new technique or engaging a practitioner, it is recommended that patients speak with their primary healthcare provider(s). Potential benefits, risks (including financial costs), and alternatives should be carefully considered. The below monograph is designed to provide historical background and an overview of clinically-oriented research, and neither advocates for or against the use of a particular therapy. The information in this monograph is intended for informational purposes only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns. Information is based on review of scientific research data, historical practice patterns, and clinical experience. This information should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a qualified healthcare provider for specific questions regarding therapies, diagnosis and/or health conditions, prior to making therapeutic decisions.
