Acai has been hailed as the super food of all super foods. Found in the rainforests of South America, the antioxidant properties in these berries are hardworking fighters for healthy skin. Not only that, these little berries provide a plethora of health benefits. Easily added to smoothies and snacks, they can also be incorporated into your home beauty regimen. But first, let’s explore why Acai has gained in popularity over the last few years and why it’s here to stay.
Acai Health & Body Benefits
Although a berry, there is no comparison of acai to other commonly found berries such as cranberries, strawberries or blueberries. The antioxidant levels of acai are through the roof and can aid a number of health concerns. Traditionally, these berries have been used to treat a number of digestive ailments from diarrhea to ulcers. They are a wonderful alternative to sugary desserts because the sugar levels in these berries are low, and yet high in fiber, iron and calcium.
- Improves circulatory health-including overall blood circulation and preventing blood clots
- Lowers cholesterol
- Aids in weight loss and fights the effects of a high fat diet
- High in fiber
- Increased immune system health due to high levels of Vitamin C
- Increases energy
Overall, this reddish-purple berry that can be found in pill form, gel, juice and powder provides a powerhouse for our beauty needs and can be used both topically and internally for maximum beauty benefits.
Breakfast Acai Bowl Recipe
Acai Breakfast Bowl
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas
- 2 tbsp acai powder
- 1/2 cup almond milk
- 2 tsp coconut oil
- 2 tsp bee pollen
- 1 tbsp almond butter
- To garnish: chia seeds crushed almonds, coconut flakes, bee pollen, acai berries
Instructions
- Add all the ingredients into the blender and pulse to obtain a creamy mixture.
- Distribute evenly into the serving bowls, top with chia seeds, pollen, coconut flakes, pollen and berries, and serve.
Acai Skincare Benefits
Vitamin C is one of the key components in acai berries that fight free radicals, and the anti-inflammatory benefits of vitamins A and E help skin fight acne and pollution. Acai is the perfect at home ingredient to use in facial masks, giving skin a healthy boost and providing an immediate glow.
- fights acne
- evens skin tone
- brightens skin
- tightens and minimizes pores
- protects cells from free radical damage
Bright Skin Age Fighting Acai Mask
- 1 teaspoon Manuka honey
- 1 tablespoon organic Acai berry powder (found at local health food store)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Manuka honey is an active honey which is both acne fighting and great for added hydration since it absorbs moisture in the air. Mix the Acai powder into the olive oil and Manuka honey. Stir well and apply to clean skin for 10-15 minutes. Rinse with warm water and washcloth to remove and follow with hydrating moisturizer.
Photos by Ana Stanciu
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This bowl is SO pretty. And I love how healthy it is! Pretty and good-for-you food is the best kind! I’ve never made my own face mask, but I totally want to try this!