Soursop, or Guanabana, is a popular tropical fruit of the Annonaceae family called Annona muricata, a broadleaf, flowering evergreen tree. The leaves of the tree are often used as a traditional botanical, while the fruit is often used in cooking and confectionaries. This article will review five of the top areas where researchers have studied Soursop, as well as the possible side effects of Soursop toxicity or overconsumption.

Soursop (Graviola) Overview

Guanabana is a fruit that grows in the American tropics and has a long history of traditional use. Learn more about the history, nutrition, and how you can consume this sweet, creamy fruit in the articles linked here:

Soursop: What You Need To Know About This Super Fruit

What Is Soursop Bitters? Benefits & How To Take

Top 5 Areas Researchers Have Studied Soursop

1. High in Antioxidants & Annonaceous Acetogenins
   
   

Antioxidants are substances that can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals that aren’t removed from the body efficiently can contribute to oxidative stress. Antioxidants help to neutralize these free radicals as part of supporting overall wellbeing.

One study examined the molecular mechanism of Soursop extract’s antioxidant action in relation to cellular oxidants. You can read more on PubMed.

Another study measured the antioxidants and plant compounds in Soursop and found the extracts were highly rich in various phytochemicals including luteolin, homoorientin, tangeretin, quercetin, daidzein, epicatechin gallate, emodin and coumaric acid.

In an article published in the International Journal of Molecular Science, it is noted that annonaceous acetogenins are the major constituents of Annona muricata. These polyketide-derived compounds are an active subject of laboratory research, and more than 100 of them have been isolated from leaves, bark, seeds, roots, and fruits. You can read more about this research on PubMed.

2. Studied For Its Antioxidant Properties
   
   

Researchers have studied how plant compounds in Soursop interact with the body's natural processes. Much of this research is currently limited to animal studies. While human studies are still needed, the early laboratory findings are of interest to researchers.

One study examined Soursop extract in rats. You can read more on PubMed.

A second study reported related observations in mice. You can read more on PubMed.

3. A Subject Of Laboratory Cell Research
   
   

It’s crucial to understand that no dietary supplement can treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Soursop is not a treatment for any condition. The studies described below are early laboratory and animal research that explore how plant compounds behave in cell cultures, not statements about any product.

Soursop has been studied by researchers in a laboratory context. You can read more about these scientific observations through the sources linked here.

One laboratory study examined how Annona muricata extract interacted with cell lines in vitro and in vivo. The researchers described it as a candidate for further scientific study. You can read more on PubMed.

A comprehensive mechanistic review brought related laboratory research up to 2018 into one place, examining how extracts of different parts of Annona muricata behaved in various cell cultures. You can read more about this body of research on PubMed.

4. Studied In Relation To Circulatory Wellness
   
   

Healthy circulation is an area of interest for many people, and researchers continue to study factors that support it.

In a randomized controlled trial involving 143 human subjects, researchers investigated Soursop supplementation in relation to circulatory measurements over a 12-week period. You can read more about the researchers' observations on PubMed.

The findings of this trial are of interest to researchers; however, more research is needed to further understand Soursop in this context.

5. Other Areas Of Research
   
   

Graviola is the subject of a wide variety of ongoing scientific research. A comprehensive guide to Soursop and its pharmacological activities reviews many relative studies conducted on Graviola. You can read more about this body of research through the linked sources.

Researchers continue to study Soursop and its plant compounds across many areas. These remain active and ongoing topics of scientific study.

Safety & Toxicity

Soursop is an active subject of research, but its potential benefits come with potential risks, as the safety and toxicity levels of the plant are not entirely clear. The level of toxicity depends on the part of the plant as well as the solvent. The seeds, for example, should never be consumed as they are toxic.

Most research concerning toxicity is limited to animal studies. One study conducted in mice examined annonacin in relation to neurological health. In murine model tests, annonacin was able to penetrate the blood brain barrier and affected ATP levels in brain cells.

These findings sound concerning, but it is important to note that the doses producing negative effects such as those mentioned above were equivalent to consuming one fruit every day for a year. Research on the neurotoxicity of annonacin indicated that adverse effects from these compounds tend to arise from continuous exposure or prolonged consumption. To reduce this risk, continuous excessive consumption should be avoided.

Conclusion

The soursop plant, its fruit, leaves, seeds, and bark are the subject of a wide range of ongoing research and come with their own set of risks. While more human studies are needed, animal and laboratory research continues to make Soursop an interesting subject of scientific study.

The toxicity of the plant varies by part and is difficult to determine depending on the solvent used during testing. One of the highest occurring compounds in the plant, annonacin, can pose the risk of neurotoxicity when consumed in excess amounts or with long-term use. Always follow the recommended dosage for any supplement you are consuming. Do your research so you are aware of the considerations and the risks, and always consult with a licensed medical professional before beginning a new health supplement to make sure it is right for you and your unique health profile.

Medical Disclaimer

Please speak with your doctor or other licensed healthcare professional before beginning any new supplement including Soursop. None of the content on this site is or should be considered medical advice. The purpose of this article is simply to highlight relevant research for those curious about Soursop.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.