Graviola is hailed as a wonder herb. Its popularity as a natural remedy against viruses and pain. A little history Tribal cultures have respected and used all parts of the Graviola tree as part of their healing traditions. For example in the Peruvian Andes, a leaf tea is used for catarrh (inflammation of mucous membranes). Numerous investigations have substantiated its activities, including anticonvulsant, anti-arthritic, antiparasitic, antimalarial, hepatoprotective and antidiabetic activities to name a few. What is Graviola? Graviola tree (Annona muricata) is a small evergreen fruiting tree native to South America.It grows to 5-6 m high, with large, glossy, dark green leaves. It produces a large, heart-shaped, edible fruit called Guanabana or Soursop in Spanish-speaking countries. Graviola (Anonna muricata) is a coveted tropical tree for its wide spectrum of biological activities. Scientists have been studying its properties since the 1940s. Virtues and benefits Most of the research on graviola focuses on a novel set of chemicals called Annonaceous acetogenins. It is a unique group of derivatives of long chain fatty acids documented for activities such as: • Antiparasitic. • Insecticidal, • Antimicrobial. The wealth of the others phytochemical in Graviola has been well researched, studied in vivo and in vitro Graviola demonstrate activities such as: • Antioxidant abilities with compound such as flavonoids, kaempferol, rutin,vitamin C and E • Antibacterial qualities. • Hypotensive properties (lowers blood pressure). • Anti-diabetic potential of Graviola in vivo. • Ability to act as a pain killer and the anti-inflammatory effects. • Potential Anti-Arthritic activity • Used to control fever and convulsive seizures. • Gastroprotective potential. • Antimalarial agent. • Promising antiparasitic activity • Show a potential hepatoprotective activity and help against jaundice. • Exhibits insecticidal activity against assorted types of insects. • Potential wound healing activity against excisional wounds.
