Soursop or Graviola is a fruit with many possibilities. It is native to the tropical regions of the Caribbean and Americas and grows on a tree. What makes this fruit so impressive is the pineapple aroma. Also, the combined apple and strawberries flavor is irresistible. People also love it because of the claim that it is effective in fighting cancer. Here are ten health benefits of soursop that might inspire you to try it out.Â
1. Kills Cancer CellsÂ
Cancer is one of the most challenging health issues in the world today. Soursop is one of the few fruits that are famous for fighting against cancer. It contains hundreds of chemicals called acetogenins. It can knock cancer cells dead (1).Â
Some people also use them to treat tumors that don’t respond to cancer treatments. Take caution while consuming soursop for the treatment of cancer. It is best to use it to support the primary treatment and not on its own.
2. Improves Gastrointestinal Health
Most people will suffer from discomfort in the gut due to toxins. Apart from medications, eating soursop can also help you get relief. The fruit can cleanse the gastrointestinal tract and remove excess salt and toxins.Â
It also contains powerful anti-inflammatory components that help to reduce gut parasites. You’ll have more peace of mind and less pain in your gut area.
3. Boost Immunity
The human body has an in-built defense mechanism to fight infection. But your immune system needs a consistent supply of certain nutrients to remain active.Â
Soursop contains powerful nutrients and minerals that boost your immunity to fight infections. The fruit also has antiviral effects on the body to help you combat viruses and reduce workload. This way, your immunity will have more power and energy to fight daily infections and germs.Â
4. Rich In Powerful Antioxidants
The human body contains cells that work together to perform billions of functions. These cells have to be in top shape else, they become weak, and you fall sick. Too much free radicals in your body, due to the oxidation process, can damage your cells.Â
One of the health benefits of soursop is to fight against oxidation and free radicals. Soursop contains luteolin, quercetin, and tangeretin. These are potent antioxidants the body needs. So, your body derives plenty of antioxidants from the fruit that strengthens your cells (2).Â
Less cell damage also means your body will be able to combat cancerous cells before they become wild.Â
5. Stabilizes Blood Sugar LevelsÂ
Too much sugar in the body may lead to several health challenges that may be life-threatening. One of the health benefits of soursop is the ability to stabilize sugar levels in the blood. People who are dealing with diabetes will gain a lot from consuming this fruit.Â
To get the best results, you need to pair it with good nutrition and an active lifestyle. There are several soursop recipes for people who are fighting diabetes. You can find these online and on recipe cookbooks.Â
6. Reduces InflammationÂ
Your body responds to attacks by germs, pathogens, etc., by employing inflammation. While it’s a good thing, too much of it might lead to pain, discomfort, and discomfort. Soursop helps to reduce inflammation, thereby promoting good health and happiness.Â
The fruit contains at least 200 potent compounds like alkaloids and phenols. When these compounds get into the body, they trigger chemical reactions. And these help the body fight diseases, pain, and inflammation.Â
7. Fights BacteriaÂ
Microbes in the body are the main reasons why we fall sick. People who have issues with bacteria in their body can go for antibiotics. If you’re looking for a natural means to manage bacteria, you can try out soursop. It contains potent compounds that are very effective in fighting bacteria.Â
Soursop is rich in vitamin C containing 20.6 mg in every 100 grams of the fruit. This gives it the potency to kill bacteria with accuracy. Apart from Vitamin C, it also contains potassium, vitamin B-6, and magnesium, making it more effective in fighting bacteria.
8. Relieves PainÂ
Almost every type of sickness and injuries will lead to pain. But most times, you feel pain as a symptom, even when you didn’t have to feel it. Pain can be hard to deal with, which is why so many people are always looking for alternative solutions.Â
For generations, people have been applying soursop to wounds and injuries. It has a sedative and anti-inflammatory component that relieves pain. Eating the fruit can also help reduce body pain and speed healing.Â
If you’re recovering from an injury or ailment, you might benefit a lot from eating soursop. Besides the great taste, you’re also going to enjoy many nutrients that it offers.
9. May Help Against InsomniaÂ
Millions of people all over the world are dealing with insomnia, making it a significant health crisis. The reason is our modern lifestyle and technology, which has affected natural healing. Eating soursop can help people suffering from insomnia to find relief.Â
Soursop has components that soothe nerves and help sufferers of stress and anxiety. If you’re finding it hard to sleep at night, why not get some of this fruit for an afternoon snack. For those who don’t want to eat it raw, you can get recipes online to help you prepare something nice.
10. Good For Hair And SkinÂ
The part of the human body that receives the most attack from microbes is hair and skin. They are located on the outside of the body and so exposed and vulnerable. One of the health benefits of soursop is the protection of hair and skin.Â
The antioxidant properties and phytonutrients work together to energize body cells. Consuming soursop also ensures you fight infections from inside and outside. Fighting inflammation in the body will also help to promote quality hair and skin health.Â
You can also make soursop paste and add it to your hair to strengthen it and make it shine. Applying the paste can also reduce itching and dandruff and bring out your skin and hair’s natural color.
Photo by Ethan Weil on Unsplash
