Soursop, or also known as Brazilian paw paw and Graviola, is the fruit that came from the Annona muricata evergreen tree. This fruit is native to tropical areas in the south and central America, and it provides a dietary supplement that is used to treat several conditions. Soursop is considered a wonder herb all over the world, and its popularity as a natural remedy for pain relief, viruses, and even helping with some types of cancer is gaining ground. This is why if you want to know more about the health benefits of soursop and its juice, then read along.
It has antioxidant properties – Soursop contains a number of antioxidant properties. These antioxidants help keep cell’s health by hunting and killing disease-causing free radicals in the body. According to a study that was done in 2014, Soursop extract and juice has many compounds with an antioxidant such as tannins, saponins, flavonoids, anthraquinones, and phytosterols. These antioxidants help people keep their overall health on the track.
It has anti-inflammatory properties – According to research, soursop contains inflammatory properties that can help relieve pain. This study showed that soursop helped block pain receptors and even reduce inflammation.
It may help lower blood sugar – Soursop may help people to regulate their blood sugar, especially if they have diabetes.
Improves Eye Health – Like we mentioned, soursop is packed with antioxidants. These antioxidants, especially vitamins E, zinc, beta-carotene, and Vitamin C, can help decrease the risk of developing eye disease. These antioxidants can help remove oxidative stress that can cause age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.
It may help prevent ulcers – Ulcers are sores that form in the esophagus, small intestine, and stomach lining. According to a study, soursop showcased antiulcer abilities, which protect the stomach’s mucous lining. Aside from that, it also helped prevent free radical damage in the digestive tract.
Boosts Kidney And Liver Health – Soursop extract was discovered to be safe in rats who have kidney and liver ailments. Similar observations were observed in humans as well. According to another study, the acetogenins that can be found in soursop is the antioxidant which is responsible for killing the malignant cells in almost 12 types of cancer and liver cancer is one of them
Boosts The Immune System – A study that was done in Korea states that consuming soursop can increase the body’s immunity. This can be credited to the bioactive compounds that can be found in the fruit. Aside from eating the soursop fruit itself, oral intake of soursop leaf extracts was discovered to help reduce edema in rat paws, which is typically caused by a weak immune system. The study also states that soursop leaf extract also has the potential to stimulate the body’s immunity, and experts say that it can be used in the treatment of immunocompromised patients. Which is why they recommend soursop to be made a part of the diet to help improve the overall lifestyle quality.
Relieves Pain – The U.S. National Library of Medicine says that soursop can also function as an analgesic. According to the study where experts used mice that were made to squirm before and after the soursop extract was induced in them. Surprisingly, the experiment produced desirable results.
Helps Treat Rheumatism – According to studies, the internal compound of soursop leaf extract was found to have anti-rheumatic properties. And when the leaves are cooked and topically applied, they helped ease rheumatism and as well as abscesses.
Possible side effects and risks
Soursop can cause nerve damage and movement problems, primarily if you use it long-term. It can also cause neuropathy, which can lead to Parkinson-like symptoms, like tremors and stiff muscles. Take note that if someone who has Parkinson’s consume soursop, it may make their symptoms worse. Soursop can be toxic to the liver or kidneys with repeated and prolonged use. That is why people should not consume soursop if they have kidney or liver problems.
If you are considering using or consuming soursop, you should first ask your doctor before consuming or using it, especially if you have high blood pressure or on blood pressure medications, pregnant, or breastfeeding.