What is Soursop?
Soursop is also called guanabana or graviola. It is the fruit of the Annona muricata, a broadleaf, flowering, evergreen tree. Both the fruit and leaves from this evergreen can be used because they are packed with nutrients. The fruit is long and prickly on the outside and has a soft, white pulp on the inside. Soursop can be eaten as is, the pulp can be squeezed to make juice, and the leaves can be used to make tea. More people are adding soursop to their diets because of its many health benefits.
These benefits include:
Promoting digestive health
Soursop can decrease stomach ulcer development as it helps to strengthen the structural integrity of the mucus linings on these organs. This is important as they are subject to the effect of hydrochloric acid from the stomach.
Supporting your immune system
Soursop is great for people with weak immune systems. It contains steroids, alkaloids, and flavonoids. Consumption of soursop fruit on a regular basis can keep the common cold at bay. It helps the body to fight against viruses and parasites.
Stabilizing blood pressure
If you thought bananas were the only potassium-rich fruit, then you’re wrong.
Guanabana is enriched with potassium and iron. These two elements are found in blood and work together for healthy blood flow, which sustains blood pressure levels.
Antioxidant properties
The acetogenins found in soursop support antioxidant production and decrease glucose when you consume frozen soursop fruit pulp.
Anti-inflammatory properties
Soursop gets its anti-inflammatory properties from its phenols, alkaloids, and acetogenins.
With the help of these substances, the body is able to reduce the expression of several inflammatory compounds.
Lowers blood sugar
Soursop can help the pancreas to produce new insulin-producing cells. This compensates in cases where there is reduced functioning in these cells. For the best results, drink unsweetened soursop juice.
Anti-Cancerous Properties
There has not been enough scientific research to support this.
But many claim that soursop may fight cancer cells. The soursop leaf extract is said to be effective in declining cancer cell lines. The extract has reduced the size of tumors in animals in previous studies.
One of the best ways to add Soursop to your diet is by using Soursop Bitters.
Here are some benefits of Bitters
Holistic care professionals have used Soursop bitters for immunity boost, stomach discomfort
Organic Herbal bitters help cleanse the colon
In Ancient Chinese medicine, bitters are cooling and remove “heat” or inflammation from the body
Reduce gas and bloating
Improves protein digestion and mineral absorption
Improves breakdown of fats and fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, K
Relieve occasional heartburn
Reduce food sensitivities
Breakdown microbes and prevent SIBO & yeast overgrowth
Promote regular bowel movements
In Ayurvedic tradition, bitters are known to reduce sweet cravings and regulate blood sugar
Eclectics promote digestive bitters for improved detoxification, healthy skin, improved joint pain, and healthy mood
Recommended Use
It is advised that adults take two tablespoons daily after meals. For children below the age of twelve years, the recommended dose is two teaspoons daily after meals. It is not advised for pregnant or menstruating women to use soursop bitters and should not be mixed with alcohol.
Like anything that is great for you, soursop may have its side effects.
Side effects of soursop to consider:
Studies have shown that consuming too much soursop can kill nerve cells and cause nervous system disorders so if someone has Parkinson’s disease, Graviola may make their symptoms worse. Those considering using soursop should also talk to their Holistic Health Practitioner before use if they:
have high blood pressure or take blood pressure medications
have diabetes
are pregnant
are breastfeeding
Do not eat the seeds, they’re toxic.
If you’re interested in adding Graviola to their routine, you should talk to your Holistic Health Care Practitioner, who will advise of individual risks and potential benefits or answer any questions you might have.
Book a consultation with us to find out more about how to add Graviola to your diet. :)
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