SOURSOP LEAVES

Soursop Tea and Its Effects on the Body

Soursop tea, made from the leaves of the soursop fruit tree, has been associated with various health benefits and potential risks. Here's a breakdown of its effects on the body based on the available information:

Nutritional Content: Soursop contains a variety of essential nutrients, including vitamin B3, vitamin C, folate, calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium, phosphorous, zinc, and copper. One entire soursop fruit provides calories, protein, fat, carbohydrates, fiber, and sugar 1.

Health Benefits:

• Antioxidants: The fruit and leaves of soursop contain antioxidants such as flavonoids, phytosterols, and tannins 2.
• Blood Sugar Regulation: Some animal studies have shown that soursop extract could significantly reduce blood sugar levels, suggesting potential benefits for those with diabetes when paired with a healthy diet and active lifestyle 3.
• Anti-Carcinogenic Effects: Soursop is rich in acetogenins, which are compounds that have a cytotoxic effect targeting cancerous cells. Some studies suggest that consuming soursop on a long-term basis may help prevent and treat various types of cancer, although more research in humans is needed to support this claim 4.

Potential Risks and Side Effects:

• Toxicity: The seeds of soursop are toxic and should not be consumed. Additionally, tea made from the leaves should be avoided during pregnancy, and caution should be exercised when using it for long periods or in small children 5.
• Interaction with Medications: Soursop may interact with high blood pressure medication or medications for diabetes, potentially causing dangerous drops in blood pressure or blood sugar levels. Therefore, supplements containing soursop or graviola should be taken with caution by patients taking anti-diabetic or antihypertensive medications 5.
• Parkinson's Disease-Like Symptoms: Studies have indicated that the fruit and tea made from the leaves may cause symptoms similar to Parkinson's disease 1.

Weight Loss and Other Effects:

• Weight Loss: Soursop leaf tea has been associated with potential benefits for weight loss, as indicated by a study on mice. However, the results in humans are not guaranteed 6.
• Gastrointestinal Healing: Soursop leaf tea has been shown to have soothing and healing effects on the gastrointestinal system in rodent models, indicating potential benefits for gastric mucosal injury 6.

In conclusion, while soursop tea may offer certain health benefits, it is important to be mindful of its potential risks and interactions with medications. As with any herbal supplement, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating soursop tea into one's diet or health regimen.