Soursop, a tropical fruit that can be found in Samoa and other Pacific Islands, parts of South America and even in Florida is a delicious combination of strawberry and pineapple. It is mostly eaten by cutting the fruit in half and scooping out the flesh. The soft pulp and flesh of the fruit can be used in drinks, desserts, smoothies and even candy.
Actually the entire tree including the leaves, the bark and even the root has been used to cure a number of ailments.
Health benefits of Soursop:
1. ANTIOXIDANTS: Antioxidants are compounds that help neutralize harmful compounds called free radicals, which can cause damage to cells. Soursop has been confirmed to be high in antioxidants, which may help prevent cell damage and could lower the risk of chronic disease.
2. HELPS TO KILL CANCER CELLS: Many researchers have worked on the unique organic compounds of soursop, and the result of their studies confirmed the fruit as a good alternative way to reduce the risk of cancer. It has been found to stop the growth and formation of cancer cells when a study looked at the effects of soursop extract on leukaemia cells. In breast cancer cells it was able to reduce tumour size, kill off cancer cells and enhance the activity of the immune system.
3. HELPS FIGHT BACTERIA: Soursop is also potent in effectively killing off multiple types of bacteria, such as strains which cause gingivitis, tooth decay and yeast infections, among others.
4. BOOSTS IMMUNITY: Protecting the immune system is one of the most important components of a healthy diet and fitness regime. It is wise for you to add a bit of soursop fruit to your diet. You can do this through refreshing beverages or desserts. This can positively impact your overall health because the fruit is highly rich in Vitamin C which stimulates the production of white blood cells.
5. IMPROVES GASTROINTESTINAL HEALTH: The juice of the fruit is a very effective diuretic. This is because it can cleanse the gastrointestinal tract and also remove excess toxins as well as salts from your body. It is also rich in anti-inflammatory components, which can reduce parasites in the gut and alleviate any pain or irritation in the stomach and colon.
6. MAY HELP STABILIZE BLOOD SUGAR LEVELS: There is no doubt that more research on humans is needed, researchers suggest that soursop can be more beneficial for those with diabetes when taken with a healthy diet and active lifestyle.
7. ANALGESIC PROPERTIES: This wonderful fruit also helps in relieving pains. Soursop, which has been topically applied to wounds and injuries for generations, also works internally to relieve pain and speed healing. The sedative and anti-inflammatory potentials of this interesting tropical fruit make it a perfect remedy for all types of body pain, both inside and out.
8. SOURSOP LEAVES: Treats gout, soothes back pain, relieves stress, treats insomnia, deals with depression and more.
