In tropical regions, the graviola tree is best known for producing a large, delectable fruit that is used to make nectar drinks, jams, ice cream and syrups. The tree is found in locations as diverse as Bermuda, the Bahamas, Florida, the West Indies, South America and Vietnam. Parts of the graviola tree are used as a traditional botanical medicine for parasites, dysentery, lice infestation and indigestion, according to Purdue University. Speak with a physician before using graviola medicinally.
Description
One of 60 species in the genus Annona, graviola is a slender tree that grows between 25 to 30 feet high. It is adorned with yellowish flowers and its evergreen leaves have an objectionable smell. Graviola fruit, also known as soursop, custard apple and guanabana, can weigh as much as 15 lbs. each, and are often covered with malleable soft spines. Purdue University notes that unripe graviola are eaten as cooked vegetables in Southeast Asia.
Scientific Research
Researchers speculate that graviola's purported effectiveness as an antidepressant might be connected to the way in which it stimulates serotonine receptors. Additionally, graviola extract inhibited the growth human breast cancer cells in the laboratory, according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Graviola possesses unique phytochemicals known as Annonaceous acetogenins, which demonstrated anti-tumor and antiviral properties, notes Taylor. These bioactive components are present in graviola's stem, bark, leaves and seeds. Taylor recounts that studies show Annonaceous acetogenins interfere only with enzymes in cancer cell membranes and do not affect normal cell membranes. Graviola should only be used under a doctor's supervision.
Traditional Uses
Every part of the tree is utilized as a botanical medicine in the tropics. Traditionally, the crushed seeds or a tea made from the leaves is used to kill bedbugs and head lice. The fruit juice is used to treat bloating. A decoction made from the mashed unripe fruit is a traditional remedy for fever and dysentery, according to Purdue University. Leslie Taylor, a naturopath and author of "The Healing Power of Rainforest Herbs," writes that graviola is also employed as an anti-convulsive, antibacterial, digestive aid and antidepressant. Consult a qualified health care provider before adding graviola to your regimen.
Safety Considerations
Graviola may act as a uterine stimulant and is not advised for pregnant women. In animal studies,it exhibited hypotensive properties and should be avoided if you have low blood pressure. Taylor cautions that the plant may also act as an antimicrobial agent that causes healthy intestinal flora to die, a conclusion based on animal research. You might want to take probiotics if you use graviola longer than 30 days.
References
- Purdue University: Soursop
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Graviola
- "The Healing Power of Rainforest Herbs: Understanding and Using Herbal Medicinals"; Leslie Taylor; 2004
Member Comments