DR. WALKER

Soursop and The Remarkable Health Benefits

What is Soursop?

Soursop, officially known as Graviola or Annona muricata, is native to South America but the fruit is commonly grown in central America, and several countries in the Caribbean. On the outside, the fruit resembles an oversized avocado that is covered with prickly spikes. The taste is commonly compared to a strawberry or pineapple. People in the Caribbean and South America use the bark, leaves, root, and fruits of the graviola tree to treat several ailments as the plant is known to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. The fruit and plant are used in various herbal remedies for treating conditions such as diabetes, and hypertension. But the research also shows that soursop has natural cytotoxicity. The fruit has an ability to reduce the cell growth of several cancers to include breast, lung, pancreatic, prostate, ovarian, and colorectal cancers in animal studies.

What are The Health Benefits of Soursop?

Soursop leaves are believed to offer a range of health benefits, although scientific research on their efficacy is limited. Some health benefits of soursop leaves include:
➢ Anti-inflammatory properties: Soursop leaves are thought to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in conditions such as arthritis and other inflammatory diseases.

➢ Antioxidant properties: Soursop leaves are rich in antioxidants, which can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals and can reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease.

➢ Antimicrobial properties: Soursop leaves are believed to have antimicrobial properties that can help fight off bacteria, viruses, and fungi, providing immune system support and helping to prevent infections.

➢ Anti-cancer potential: Some studies suggest that compounds found in soursop leaves may have anti-cancer properties and could potentially help inhibit the growth of cancer cells.

➢ Diabetes management: Soursop leaves may help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity, making them potentially beneficial for individuals with diabetes or at risk of developing the condition.

Side Effects of Soursop:

▪ Toxicity: Soursop contains compounds known as annonacin and acetogenins, which have been linked to neurotoxicity and may potentially worsen Parkinson's disease-like symptoms if consumed in large quantities over an extended period of time.

▪ Low blood pressure: Soursop tea may lower blood pressure, so individuals with low blood pressure should exercise caution when consuming it to avoid further lowering their blood pressure to unsafe levels.

▪ Allergic reactions: Some individuals may have allergic reactions to soursop tea, experiencing symptoms such as itching, hives, or swelling. If you have a known allergy to soursop or related fruits, it is best to avoid consuming soursop tea.

▪ Interactions with medications: Soursop tea may interact with certain medications, such as blood pressure medications, antidepressants, and blood thinners.

▪ Digestive issues: Some individuals may experience digestive issues such as diarrhea, nausea, or abdominal discomfort when consuming soursop tea, especially if consumed in large quantities.

Can Soursop Kill Cancer Cells?

Soursop leaves have gained attention for their potential anti-cancer properties, with some studies suggesting that compounds found in soursop leaves may have cytotoxic effects on cancer cells. These compounds, known as acetogenins, have been studied for their potential to inhibit the growth of cancer cells and induce cell death (apoptosis) in various types of cancer.

Potential ways in which soursop leaves may have an impact on cancer include:

▪ Anti-proliferative effects: Studies have shown that soursop leaf extract may inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells by interfering with their growth and division.

▪ Apoptotic effects: Soursop leaf extract has been found to induce apoptosis, or programmed cell death, in cancer cells, which can help to prevent the growth and spread of tumors.

▪ Anti-angiogenic effects: Soursop leaf extract may also have anti-angiogenic effects, meaning that it can inhibit the formation of new blood vessels that supply nutrients to tumors, thereby limiting their growth.

How to Increase Soursop in The Diet?

Soursop leaves can be consumed in various ways to potentially benefit from their health properties. Some common ways to consume soursop leaves include:

✓ Soursop tea: One of the most popular methods is to make soursop leaf tea by steeping dried or fresh soursop leaves in hot water. This can be done by boiling the leaves in water for a few minutes, then allowing the mixture to steep before straining and drinking the tea.

✓ Soursop leaf extract: Soursop leaf extract can be made by crushing fresh soursop leaves and extracting the liquid. This extract can be consumed directly or added to beverages or smoothies.

✓ Soursop leaf capsules or supplements: Soursop leaf supplements are available in capsule form, which can be taken orally for convenience.

✓ Soursop leaf poultice: Soursop leaves can also be used topically by crushing the leaves into a paste and applying it directly to the skin as a poultice to treat skin conditions or inflammation.

✓ Soursop leaf powder: Soursop leaf powder can be made by drying and grinding soursop leaves into a fine powder. This powder can be added to smoothies, juices, or foods for consumption.

Health Tips:

There are several supplements that may be used to assist in the treatment of cancers; these would include things like Soursop, Amygdalin and Ivermectin. Soursop has been traditionally used in various cultures for its potential health benefits. As discussed, some studies have even suggested that soursop may have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. That being said, soursop tea and soursop products in general are not regulated or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment or prevention of any specific health conditions. Remember however that the FDA does not develop, manufacture or test drugs. Drug manufacturers submit full reports of a drug's studies so that the Center can evaluate its data.
Be that as it may, these products have been used in several places around the world. One should remember that if these claims are true there would be little need for the pharmaceutical industry to investigate these products.
It is recommended to purchase soursop products from reputable sources and to use them as part of a balanced and healthy diet.

References:

Soursop Health Benefits (clevelandclinic.org)
11 Benefits of Soursop (Guanabana) - Natural Food Series
https://www.fda.gov/about-fda/center-drug-evaluation-and-research-cder/frequently-asked-questions-about-cder#:~:text=FDA%20does%20not%20develop%2C%20manufacture,Center%20can%20evaluate%20its%20data.