The graviola tree, botanically known as Annona muricata, grows in the rainforests of the Amazon and Caribbean islands. It produces a fruit that is popular among native peoples. Graviola fruit, seeds, leaves, bark and roots have all been used as medicinal remedies for countless generations for a variety of problems, especially those related to digestion and parasites. Although graviola is sometimes used in alternative health clinics to combat cancer, it is not commonly suggested for lupus. Graviola produces tranquillizing and sedative effects, which can be of help with any debilitating disease, but you should consult with your doctor before you embark on a supplement regimen.
Lupus
Lupus is an abbreviated name for systemic lupus erythematosus, or SLE, which is a systemic autoimmune connective tissue disease. In short, the immune system attacks your body's connective tissues, such as your skin, ligaments, joints and blood vessels, which results in damage, inflammation and a characteristic face rash said to look wolf-like. Lupus eventually damages organs too, especially the heart, lungs, liver and kidneys. The course of the disease is unpredictable, with periods of flare-ups alternating with remissions. According to "Human Biochemistry and Disease," lupus occurs much more often in women, especially those under the age of 35 and of non-European descent. The causes of lupus are not well understood and mainstream medicine must rely on suppressing your immune system with corticosteroids to preserve life.
Graviola Properties and Benefits
The effects of graviola supplements on humans have not been studied, but its various properties have been studied in vitro, or within the lab. Graviola leaves contain powerful phytochemicals and amonaceous acetogenins that selectively kill some types of cancer cells and the fruit and seeds display antiviral, antibacterial, anti-parasitic and anti-diarrhea properties. Traditionally, South American Indians have used all parts of the graviola tree to treat asthma, liver conditions, arthritis and heart disease, which are all conditions that can develop in people with lupus. Graviola tea is used for sedation and reducing hypertension, which can be helpful for any chronic and stressful disease. However, graviola is not considered a cure for lupus or any disease, so consult with your doctor about your treatment options.
Types of Supplements
Graviola extract, available in varying concentrations, is made from the flowers, fruit and seeds of the tree and easily digested and absorbed because of its lack of fibrous material. Graviola tea is made from the leaves, bark and roots and is much more diluted than extracts, but also well-absorbed. The bark gives the tea additional antifungal properties and is appropriate for daily use. Graviola fruit is still commonly eaten throughout South America and the Caribbean. In North America, dried graviola fruit can be purchased in some health-food stores. Graviola's sedative properties come from its fruit, which contain a serotonin uptake inhibitor. Consulting with your physician before taking any graviola supplement is recommended.
Cautions
Graviola products are generally considered safe and have been consumed frequently by peoples of all ages in many countries for countless generations. However, according to "Nutritional Sciences," some research has linked consumption of very high concentrations of annonacin, a compound in most graviola products, with the development of Parkinson's disease. As such, exercise caution if taking graviola products and share any concerns with your doctor.
References
- "Professional Guide to Diseases: Ninth Edition"; Springhouse Publishing; 2009
- "Human Biochemistry and Disease"; Gerald Litwack; 2008
- "Medical Herbalism: The Science Principles and Practices of Herbal Medicine"; David Hoffmann; 2003
- "The New Healing Herbs"; Michael Castleman; 2010
- "Nutritional Sciences"; Michelle McGuire; 2007
