Acai berry extract comes from the fruit of the açaí palm, a tree native to Central and South America. You can find it in capsule or powder form. It contains anthocyanins, the compounds that give the berries their deep purple color.
Lab experiments show the extract has antioxidant activity, but strong human trials are missing. Companies sell it for general wellness, yet the proof backing those claims is thin.
Most people take it once a day with food. Products often claim a certain percentage of polyphenols or anthocyanins, but strength differs from brand to brand.
Side effects are rare. Because of its polyphenol content, it could in theory interact with some medicines, though no well-documented cases exist. Talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement.