DRIED ORGANIC SOURSOP LEAVES

The Latin name for soursop is Annona muricata.  It is also known as graviola, guyabano and guanabana.  It is native to the tropical regions and is currently widely cultivated. The fruit is large, green and oval, or heart shaped with thorny skin.  The inside has a creamy color and texture.  The taste is similar to a mix of strawberry, banana, mango with a hint of citrus.  The fruit can grow up to 30 cm in length and can weigh up to 7 kg. It’s leaves are oblong to oval in shape and are around 10-15 cm in length and 7 cm wide with a glossy dark green color.  Each flower stalk has from 1-3 flowers with thick yellowish petals.  The tree can grow up to 9.1 m tall. Throughout history, the use of the leaves and twigs of the Soursop plant seems to be the preferred method of medicinal use.  Even so, the fruit itself is highly nutritious.  The fruit has a diuretic effect on the body by removing excess sodium.  And due to the high fiber content of the fruit, soursop is a delicious way to aid in proper digestion. Soursop is high in antioxidants which could play a role in reducing the risk of heart disease, cancer and diabetes. The antioxidants help protect and prevent damage to cells.  Soursop contains several plant compounds including luteolin, quercetin and tangeretin which act as antioxidants.

Excellent Source of Cancer Fighting Properties In one study, breast cancer cells which were treated with soursop extract, were reduced in size.  The extract was also helpful in killing the cancer cells and boosting the activity of the immune system. In another study, the extract was able to stop the growth and formation of leukemia cells.

Soursop Helps Fight Bacteria The plant has also shown in various studies to kill multiple types of bacteria including gingivitis, strains that cause tooth decay and also yeast infections.  It is also effective against the bacteria responsible for cholera and staphylococcus.

Reduces Inflammation Soursop extract has been found to decrease the levels of certain inflammatory markers indicated in arthritis.

Plays a Role in Stabilizing Blood Sugar Soursop has been shown to decrease blood sugar levels by up to 75% in one study.

NOTE: Consult a Professional Herbalist for guidance before using these leaves. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Keep out of reach of children.  Any recipes included in this description are only SUGGESTIONS based on what we know about their benefits.