Soursop Health Benefits
Health Benefits of Soursop (Guanábana)
Soursop, also known as graviola and guanábana, is the fruit of Annona muricata evergreen tree native to the tropical regions of the Americas and the Caribbean.
The stems, leaves, seeds and fruit of soursop has been used for medicinal and culinary purposes.
Soursop has essential vitamins and minerals including vitamin C, potassium, magnesium, thiamine, niacin, riboflavin, folate, phosphorous, zinc, copper and iron.
Soursop has a high fiber, vitamin C and potassium content.
Soursop is rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants help fight free radicals in the body and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Soursop has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral and anticancer properties.
Traditionally, soursop is used to treat bacterial and fungal infections. Soursop has also been used to treat fevers, respiratory and skin illnesses, diabetes and internal and external parasites.
In South America, soursop juice is used to treat many diseases including heart and liver disease. The fruit flesh is used to promote breast milk production after childbirth, treat rheumatism, arthritic pain and neuralgia.
Soursop may help improve digestion, prevent ulcers and boost your immunity.
Soursop may also improve sleep and reduce stress and anxiety.
Soursop may also help treat herpes.
Soursop may have some side effects including, nerve damage and movement problems with long term use. If you have Parkinson’s disease, symptoms may worsen.
Soursop may interact with certain medications including blood pressure or diabetes medications.
As always, consult with your physician.
Sources:
https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/graviola
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6091294/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8878098/