Soursop fruit has green skin and looks like a spiky mango with white flesh and brown seeds inside. Several studies have revealed that this fruit with a creamy texture and strong flavor is rich in phytochemicals that give it plenty of beneficial properties including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal activities.
The Positive Effects Of Soursop Fruit In Our Body
Helps Kill Cancer Cells
Soursop has anti-tumor properties that make them a promising natural anti-cancer agent.
In a study published in the Journal of Herbal Medicine, researchers from the University of Putra Malaysia have discovered that soursop possessed anti-cancer properties, with annonacin showing the highest cytotoxicity against lymphoma cells. Aside from this, researchers have also identified alkaloids, phenols, and acetogenins to be its most important phytochemicals.
Annonaceous acetogenins (ACGs) are a type of fatty acid that is said to be responsible for the cytotoxicity shown by soursop extracts against cancer cells. It also inhibits a complex known as NADH-ubiquinone reductase which is responsible for mitochondrial respiration and is believed to be involved in cancer development. ACGs are selectively cytotoxic toward cancer cells but are not toxic to normal cells.
Moreover, a 2012 in vivo and in vitro study found soursop may be beneficial against some pancreatic cancer cell lines by inhibiting cellular metabolism.
Has Analgesic Properties
Soursop fruit has been used traditionally for relieving pain and speeding up wound healing. It possesses anti-inflammatory and sedative effects that make it an ideal remedy for all types of body pain both inside and out.
It May Help Lower Blood Pressure
Soursop is beneficial in lowering down blood pressure. Remember that high blood pressure is associated with an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
A 2012 study on rats showed that soursop works by reducing blood pressure without increasing heart rate. Experts have concluded that this effect is mainly due to “peripheral mechanisms involving antagonism of Ca²⁺ [calcium ions].”
May Help Reduce Inflammation
Inflammation is a normal response of the body to injury. However, chronic inflammation has been found to contribute to various diseases.
According to studies, soursop extract can help lower levels of swelling and alleviate inflammation. It has been found to be especially beneficial in the treatment of inflammatory disorders like arthritis.
Helps Boost Immunity
Soursop fruit is one of the most important components of a healthy diet. It is rich in vitamin C that helps stimulate the production of white blood cells. Regular consumption of it can improve our overall health and protect us against illnesses.