Graviola is a broad spectrum antimicrobial agent for both bacterial and fungal infections, is effective against internal parasites and worms, lowers high blood pressure and is used for depression, stress and nervous disorders. Graviola is a small evergreen tree. The leaves, fruit, seeds and stem are used to make medicine.
Graviola comes from the rain forests of Africa, South America, the Caribbean and Southeast Asia. Its scientific name is Annona Muricata.
It is also known as Custard Apple, Cherimoya, Güanabana, Soursop and Brazilian Paw. The active ingredient is thought to be a type of plant compound (phytochemical) called Annonaceous Acetogenins. In laboratory studies, (Curr Top Med Chem. 2013; 13(14):1666-73). Graviola extracts can kill some types of liver and breast cancer cells that are resistant to particular chemotherapy drugs. People in African and South American countries have used Graviola to treat infections with viruses or parasites, including Leishmaniasis, a disease caused by parasites transmitted through the bite of sand fleas; rheumatism, arthritis, depression, herpes, coughs, cancer and sickness. It is also used to cause vomiting and to empty the bowels. Some people use Graviola to help them relax, and can be applied to the skin for arthritis. In foods, Graviola is used in cooking and beverages.