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Graviola (Annona muricata), also known as custard apple and soursop, is derived from a tree that grows in the rain forests of South America, Southeast Asia, and Africa. The leaves, roots, fruits, and bark have been used as herbal remedies around the world, as graviola is reported to have antiviral, antimicrobial, antiparasitic, anticancer, and antirheumatic properties.
The active ingredient in graviola is the phytochemical annonaceous acetogenins, which is found in the leaves, bark, and twigs. In a study conducted at Purdue University, scientists found that annonaceous acetogenins was effective against the growth of treatment resistant human mammary cancer cells. (Oberlies 1997) Graviola extracts have also demonstrated activity against several other cancer cell lines in the lab. (Jaramillo 2000; Liaw 2002) So far, however, no large-scale studies have been done in humans.
Although supplements on various websites claim graviola does not cause side effects, there are several precautions to consider. One, taking a large dose of graviola juice may cause vomiting. Two, graviola has a depressant effect on the cardiovascular system and so should not be used by anyone who has a heart condition. Three, long-term use of graviola can lead to fungal and yeast infections, because of its antimicrobial properties. Anyone considering graviola should consult their healthcare provider before starting treatment.
References
Jaramillo MC et al. Cytotoxicity and antileishmanial activity of Annona muricata pericarp. Fitoterapia 2000; 71: 183-86
Liaw CC et al. New cytotoxic monotetrahydrofuran annonaceous acetogenins from Annona muricata. J Nat Prod 2002; 65:470-75
Oberlies NH et al. Structure-activity relationships of diverse Annonaceous acetogenins against multidrug resistant human mammary adenocarcinoma (MCF-7/Adr) cells. J Med Chem 1997; 40:2102-6
