Guanábana, also known as Soursop, Graviola and Annona, is a species of tree native to tropical regions of Latin Americas. TheLatin name is Annona muricata. The fruit of Guanábana/ Soursop is fast gaining popularity for its delicious flavour and impressive health benefits.
As a very nutrient-dense food supplement Guanábana/Soursop/ Graviola is favourably consumed in the form of powder extracted from the fruit and leaves. A typical portion of powder of this plant is low in calories yet high in several nutrients like dietary fiber and Vitamin C. A 3,5 ounces - 100 grams - serving of raw Guanábana/ Soursop contains; calories 66, protein 1 gram, carbohydrates 16,8 grams, fiber 3,3 grams, Vitamin C 34% of the RDA (Recommended Daily Allowances), Vitamin B 42% of RDA, potassium 8% of RDA, magnesium 5% of RDA and thiamine 5% of RDA. Guanábana/ Soursop also contains a small amount of niacin, riboflavin, folate and iron.
The considerable health benefits of Guanábana/Soursop/Graviola are especially the following:
Anti-Parasitic Properties
The anti-parasitic nature of Guanábana/Soursop has made it a popular treatment in many of the rural areas of Latin and South America, particularly in areas where parasitic infections are more common. By brewing a tea from the leaves of the plant the gastrointestinal system can be kept running smoothly. This benefit is confirmed by a study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Guanábana/Soursop can reduce inflammation, which is a normal immune response to injury. Increasing evidence shows that chronic inflammation could contribute to various diseases. Guanábana/Soursop may therefore be especially beneficial in the treatment of respiratory conditions and inflammatory disorders like rheumatoid arthritis, gout, IBD/IBS, Crohn´s, Ulcerativa Colitis and many other inflammatory diseases.
Relieves Respiratory Distress
If you are struggling with a cough, cold, or other forms of respiratory ailment, then Gunanábana/Soursop´s anti-inflammatory properties can help clear out your airways, relive congestion and soothe irritation. Acting as an expectorant, taking Guanábana/ Soursop is a reliable way to eliminate phlegm and muscus where many pathogens can live. By reducing inflammation of nasal cavities and respiratory tracts, it can also speed healing.
Treats Insomnia
Soursop tea has been used as a stress-relieving strategy for centuries. There are certain anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, e.g. melatonin, in Guanábana/Soursop that make it very effective if you are suffering from excessive stress and anxiety. Stress hormones in the body can be detrimental and can disturb your natural metabolic cycles, as well as your sleep schedule. If you’re suffering from insomnia or restless sleep, Guanábana/Soursop tea is a wise choice.
Skin Care
The powder of the plant parts can be formulated into a skin astringent, helping to reduce lines and wrinkles and improving the appearance of age spots and blemishes. Topically apply this paste to the affected areas regularly and feel the glow on your skin return. It also protects the skin from bacterial and microbial infections.
Anti-Cancer Potential
The most interesting benefits of Guanábana/Soursop are related to its antioxidant activity, which comes from acetogenins as well as quinolones and alkaloids. These have been directly linked to cancer prevention and a reduction in the size of tumours in some studies.
Extensive research has been done on the unique organic compounds of Guanábana/Soursop and it has been widely studied as an alternative way of reducing the risk of cancer. The acetogenins present in them are actually unique to the Annonaceae plant family, which is what makes them so fascinating. They can apparently cut off blood flow to foreign or non-normal cellular growth and have already been positively associated with reducing the risk of breast, pancreatic, prostate and lung cancers. (Reference: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles /PMC6091294).
Boosts Immunity
Protecting the immune system is one of the most important components of maintaining a healthy body. Adding some spoonfuls of Guanábana/ Soursop fruit powder to the diet, either through refreshing smoothies and bowls, beverages or desserts, can positively impact your overall health. Rich in Vitamin C and B, this fruit stimulates the production of white blood cells, while the concentration of antioxidants helps to neutralize free radicals and prevent chronic diseases, such as; diabetes type 2, rheumatoid arthritis, IBD/IBS, Crohn´s, Ulcerative Colitis and all other inflammatory diseases ending in -itis.
Improves Gastrointestinal Health
Being rich in Vitamin C and B, Guanábana/Soursop was used for many years as a natural remedy for scurvy and dysentery. The juice of the Soursop fruit can also be a very effective diuretic as it can cleanse the gastrointestinal tract and remove excess toxins and salts from the body. Its anti-inflammatory components, including the alkaloids and quinolones, can reduce parasites in the gut and alleviate any pain or irritation in the stomach or colon.
Analgesic Properties
In terms of pain relief, Guanábana/ Soursop has been topically applied to wounds and injuries for generations. However, it also works internally to relieve pain and speed healing. The sedative and anti-inflammatory aspects of this impressive tropical fruit make it an ideal solution for all types of body pain, both inside and out. The analgesic properties of Guanábana/ Soursop have been confirmed in an experiment conducted on rodents, published in the Journal of Medicinal Food.
Word of Caution: While these traditional uses are powerful and effective, it is important to discuss any new additions to your health regiment with a trained medical professional. This is particularly pertinent in the case of its cancer fighting potential. It is wise to seek out multiple opinions before developing your treatment profile. And as always, everything in moderation!
The Guanábana/Soursop/Graviola/ Anona powder marketed by the Amazon Superfoods Company is 100% natural as the fruits are cultivated and harvested in a chemical free and organic environment by independent local and indigenous communities living deep in the Peruvian Amazon Rainforest.
