Graviola: what it is for, properties and how to consume

Soursop is a fruit, also known as Jaca do Pará or Jaca de poor, used as a source of fiber and vitamins, and its consumption is recommended in cases of constipation, diabetes and obesity.

The fruit has an oval shape, with a dark green skin and covered with "thorns". The internal part is formed by a white pulp with a slightly sweet and slightly acidic flavor, being used in the preparation of vitamins and desserts.

The scientific name of soursop is Annona muricata L. and can be found in markets, fairs and health food stores.

Benefits and what is soursop for

Because of its properties, soursop can be used in several situations, such as:

1. Reduction of insomnia, as it contains compounds that promote relaxation and drowsiness; Hydration of the organism, since the pulp of the fruit consists mainly of water; Blood pressure decrease, as it is a fruit with diuretic properties, thus helping to regulate pressure; Treatment of stomach diseases, such as gastritis and ulcer, since it has anti-inflammatory properties, reducing pain; Prevention of osteoporosis and anemia, as it is a fruit very rich in calcium, phosphorus and iron; Diabetes treatment, because it has fibers that prevent sugar from rising quickly in the blood; Delay in aging, since it has antioxidant properties, thus fighting free radicals; Relief from rheumatism pains, as it has anti- rheumatic properties, reducing inflammation and pain.

Soursop can also be used to treat obesity, constipation, liver disease, migraine, flu, worms and depression, as it is a great mood modulator.

Does soursop cure cancer?

The relationship between the use of soursop and the cure for cancer has not yet been scientifically proven, however several studies have been carried out with the aim of studying the components of soursop and its effect on cancer cells.

Recent studies have shown that soursop is rich in acetogenins, which is a group of metabolic products that have a cytotoxic effect, being able to act directly on cancer cells. In addition, it was seen in studies that long-term consumption of soursop has a preventive effect and therapeutic potential for various types of cancer.

Despite this, more specific studies involving soursop and its components are needed to verify the true effect of this fruit on cancer, since its effect may vary according to the way the fruit is grown and the concentration of its bioactive components.

How to consume

Soursop can be consumed in several ways: natural, as a supplement in capsules, in desserts, teas and juices. Everything from the soursop can be used, from the root to the flowers.

• Soursop tea: It is made with 10 g of dry soursop leaves, which should be placed in 1 liter of boiling water. After 10 minutes, strain and consume 2 to 3 cups after meals; Soursop Juice: To make the juice just beat in a blender 1 soursop, 3 pears, 1 orange and 1 papaya, along with water and sugar to taste. Once beaten, you can already consume.

Contraindication to the use of soursop

Soursop consumption is not indicated for pregnant women, people with mumps, thrush or mouth sores, as the acidity of the fruit can cause pain, and people with hypotension, as one of the side effects of the fruit is the decrease in blood pressure.

In addition, hypertensive people should have guidance from the cardiologist regarding the consumption of soursop, as the fruit can interact with the medications used or even greatly reduce the pressure, which can lead to hypotension.