Acai is a species of palm trees that grows mostly in swamps and flood plains. Mostly it’s found in central and south America. When people talk of acai, they are usually referring to the acai berry. Acai palms are cultivated for their berries and heart of palm, which are used as salads. The acai fruit is similar to a grape in appearance. Itís mostly used as food by the South American communities. The fruits are also used to make various juices and sodas and ice cream flavors.

Acai berries also have medicinal value; they can be used to boost energy levels, detoxification, improving digestion and cholesterol reduction. The acai can only be compared to the Goji berry with regard to its health benefits. One of the main uses nowadays of the acai berry is consuming it for weight loss; people have even formed blogs on how best to use acai for weight loss.  The acai palm also has other commercial uses such as making hats, mats, baskets and brooms from the leaves. The trunks are used for building as its resistant to pests and its seeds can be ground to produce livestock feeds.