Synonyms: Annona macrocarpa, Guanabana, Soursop, Brazilian paw paw
Sold in South American markets as the edible fruit guanabana, every part of the graviola tree is used in traditional Amazonian medicine, each with its own healing properties. It has been the subject of much Western study for its antitumor and anticancer potential, as well as for a slew of its other healing properties.
The plant’s leaves, stem, bark, and seeds contain a novel set of chemicals, known as “annonaceous acetogenins”, that have been tested and proven to be toxic against certain types of cancer cells, while leaving healthy cells untouched. Its fruit has been shown to kill worms and other intestinal parasites, while the oil from its fruit and leaves can be mixed with olive oil to treat arthritis pain.
