Acai* fruit (Euterpe oleracea) is reported to support the human immune system. A few studies verify immune enhancing effects of acai polyphenols. Of significance, polyphenols and polysaccharides found in other immune-enhancing fruits resemble those in acai. (Acai was found to contain arabinogalactan polysaccharides.)
One particular study emphasized the effects of acai on gammadelta T cells. These cells are found in the lining of intestine and other “portals of entry in the body”. They enhance innate immune responses, while promoting adaptive immune responses. Promotion of these T cells may benefit treatment of cancers, as well as infections. Drinking tea and eating some fruits and vegetables promotes these T cells. Certain polyphenols and polysaccharides have been found to promote the activity gammadelta T cells.
Acai contains both polyphenols and polysaccharides. The authors did not find T cell-enhancing effects from the polyphenols, but acai did “robustly” enhance T cell immunity by the polysaccharides it contains. The largest polysaccharides from acai were the most active immunologically, activating both myeloid and T cells, while increasing T-12 production.
CONCLUSION: The results of this study show that acai berry enhances the innate immune system by stimulating gammadelta T cells. It may also benefit people with asthma and infectious diseases.
NOTE: *Acai berry comes from central and south America. It should be noted that the “kissing bug” leaves its feces on fresh acai fruit and spreads Chaga’s disease, caused by Trypanosoma cruzi. Chaga’s disease is rapidly increasing in the southern United States. Women who have Chaga’s disease can pass it to their babies.
Charles Darwin contracted an illness in South America and had it the rest of his life. It is theorized to have been Chaga’s disease. He had great benefit with homeopathic treatment.
Read about the use of acai for pain and limited range of motion in osteoarthritis.
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PMID: 21386979.
Summary #541.