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Soursop graviola extract

Also known as: Soursop, Graviola, Guanabana, Guyabano, Sirsak, Durian Belanda, Annona muricata

Overview

Soursop graviola extract is derived from the Annona muricata tree, found in tropical regions. It contains bioactive compounds like acetogenins, phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and alkaloids. Traditionally used in folk medicine for infections, inflammation, and cancer, it's now investigated for anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. Research is primarily preclinical, with limited high-quality human trials. Systematic reviews suggest promising bioactivities but emphasize the need for more rigorous clinical data. The extract is available in various forms, including capsules, powders, and liquid extracts, sourced from different parts of the tree.

Benefits

Soursop extract shows anticancer potential due to acetogenins inhibiting cancer cell growth in vitro and in animal models, but human clinical evidence is insufficient. It may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, as shown in preclinical studies. Soursop fruit, rich in potassium, may support cardiovascular health by stabilizing blood pressure. Other potential benefits, mainly from animal research, include hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, antinociceptive (pain relief), and anti-ulcerative properties. More research is needed to confirm these benefits in humans.

How it works

The acetogenins in soursop inhibit mitochondrial complex I, disrupting ATP production in cancer cells and leading to apoptosis. Phenolic compounds and flavonoids act as antioxidants, scavenging free radicals and modulating inflammatory pathways. The extract targets mitochondrial respiratory enzymes, inflammatory mediators (e.g., cytokines), and oxidative stress markers. Bioavailability data are limited, and the absorption and metabolism of acetogenins and phenolics may vary, affecting systemic effects. Further pharmacokinetic studies are required to fully understand its mechanisms.

Side effects

Soursop leaf extract is generally well-tolerated in animal studies and limited human data, but neurotoxicity has been observed at high doses in animals. Mild gastrointestinal discomfort may occur. Neurotoxicity and potential hepatotoxicity have been noted in animal models at high doses, but the relevance to humans is unclear. Soursop may interact with chemotherapy agents, altering drug metabolism or efficacy, requiring medical supervision for concurrent use. Pregnant or breastfeeding women and individuals with neurodegenerative diseases should avoid use due to insufficient safety data.

Dosage

No standardized dosing exists for soursop extract due to a lack of clinical trials. Animal studies use variable doses, and human equivalent doses are not well established. If used as a supplement, doses should be conservative and under healthcare provider guidance, especially in cancer patients. Due to the lack of human data, there is no established upper limit, and caution is advised to avoid potential neurotoxic effects seen in animal studies at high doses.

FAQs

Is soursop extract effective for cancer treatment?

Current evidence is insufficient to support its use as a standalone cancer therapy. It may have complementary benefits but should not replace standard treatments.

Is it safe to take with chemotherapy?

Potential interactions exist; consult oncologists before use to avoid interference with treatment efficacy or increased side effects.

How soon can benefits be expected?

No clinical data define a timeline; preclinical effects are observed in days to weeks in vitro or animal models, but these do not necessarily translate to humans.

Are there risks of neurotoxicity?

High doses in animals have shown neurotoxic effects; human risk is unknown but caution is advised, especially with long-term use or high dosages.

Research Sources

https://mjpharm.org/effect-of-annona-muricata-soursop-on-patients-with-cancer-a-systematic-review/ – This systematic review examined the effect of soursop extract on cancer patients. It found that while soursop extract shows anticancer activity in vitro and in animal models, human clinical evidence is lacking. The review also noted that safety and tolerability appear acceptable but need further study due to the limited number of RCTs, small sample sizes, and lack of standardized dosing.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jphp.13182 – This systematic review assessed the safety and tolerability of soursop, including in vitro, animal, and human studies. The review found that soursop leaf extract exhibits hepatoprotective, neurotoxic, antinociceptive, anti-ulcerative, and chemopreventive effects. It also noted that animal toxicity at high doses may not directly translate to humans, and the included studies were of medium to high quality, though limited human clinical trials were available.
https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/treatment/complementary-alternative-therapies/individual-therapies/graviola – Cancer Research UK reviewed the available evidence on graviola and its potential as a cancer treatment. They concluded that there is insufficient reliable evidence to support graviola as an effective cancer treatment, with most studies being laboratory-based and lacking robust clinical trials. The review highlighted the absence of RCTs and clinical data to support its use.
https://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/health-benefits-soursop – WebMD summarized the health benefits of soursop based on systematic reviews and preclinical studies. The summary indicated that bioactive compounds in soursop may reduce cancer cell growth and inflammation, but clinical evidence is preliminary. It emphasized the need for medical consultation before using soursop as a supplement, particularly for individuals with pre-existing health conditions.
https://www.mdpi.com/2673-4397/3/1/8 – This research article likely explores the bioactive compounds and potential health benefits of soursop. Further review of the full article would be needed to provide a more detailed summary of its findings, but MDPI is a reputable publisher of scientific research.