The Acai berry comes from a South American Acai Palm and is the size of a dark purple-red grape. Although first popular in Brazil, the berry is commonly blended into smoothies and recently marketed as a dietary supplement. Supposedly the acai berry helps detoxify the body while lowering cholesterol, increasing sexual performance and promoting weight loss. Although none of these claims are substantiated with clinical trials the berry adds a wonderful flavor to green teas, especially senchas.
The berry has a blueberry like flavor and acts as a natural tea sweetener. Although many companies sell acai bits mixed with green tea in bags, the berry can be purchased at most whole food stores. If you have loose leaf green and add in 3 berries per cup you will be pleasantly surprised with a refreshing fruity taste that is not too overpowering.
