SOURSOP

Anti-inflammatory

Whilst inflammation is a valid immune response in the body, chronic low-level inflammation is known to be a root cause of many issue including rheumatoid arthritis and auto-immune conditions. Graviola is a natural anti-inflammatory that is high in powerful antioxidants, with many research studies finding that this fruit is effective in reducing chronic inflammation.

Depression/Anxiety

Studies show that extracts from the Soursop fruit and leaves may reduce depression. Containing three types of alkaloids; asimadoline, annonaine, and nornuciferine, these phytochemicals stimulate serotonin receptors. Serotonin is an important neurotransmitter that directly contributes to mood in a positive way.

Soursop can also help to reduce stress and anxiety by counteracting the effects of cortisol – the body’s main stress hormone - enabling the body to deal with stress and bringing the nerves down to a more


Graviola / Soursop Tea

Use 1 - 2 teaspoons of Graviola Leaf per cup. Pour over boiling water and allow to steep for 10 - 15 minutes.

Graviola / Soursop Tincture

Graviola Tincture can be added to water or fruit juice. Traditionally Taken: Take 2-3 ml 2-3 times per day, or as directed by a Herbal Practitioner.

The Soursop/Graviola fruit can be eaten fresh, added into smoothies or juiced.

Folklore and History

The Soursop makes its first appearance in written history in the 16th century when it was described by the Spanish explorer Oviedo, "as cones or fruit as large as melons but longish in shape". He noted that it grew abundantly in the West Indies and in Northern South America, and Oviedo and other Spanish explorers are credited with spreading the Graviola fruit around the world.

It is believed to have made its way into North America, in particular Florida, around 140 years ago, having been listed by the "American Pomological Society" in 1879.

In 1951 a Professor in Puerto Rico who was encouraging the development of the Soursop told a professor of agriculture in the United States that he wanted to adopt a different name for the fruit in the US. He didn’t think the name was very appealing and was concerned its alias, Guanabana, was too difficult to pronounce. To this day, a better name has not been found.


Constituents

Soursop/Graviola contains vitamins; C, B1, B3, B3, B5 (pantothenic acid), B6 & B9 (folate). Minerals; potassium, magnesium, copper, iron and phosphorus. The phytochemicals present in Soursop are alkaloids, flavonoids, carbohydrates, cardiac glycosides, saponins, tannins, phytosterols, terpenoids, and proteins.

Precautions

Not recommended if pregnant or breastfeeding.

Do not use Soursop/Graviola if you have low blood pressure or are taking any prescription medications for blood pressure.

If you are taking any prescription medications, please consult your healthcare practitioner.