Sour sop is also known as Graviola, it is commonly known  as custard apple. It has the botanical name Annona Muricata ,  in Hausa language it is called Fasadarur or Tuwon biri , in Yoruba language it is called Ebo or Apekan, in Akwa ibom it is commonly called Shawashawa.

Sour sop contains several beneficial antioxidants ( antioxidants are man-made or natural substances that delay or prevent some type of cell damage. Diets high in vegetables and fruits are a good source of antioxidants) and minerals, such as iron and calcium.  It also contains vitamins B as well as vitamins C, E, A (which occur in the form of beta carotene). It has some phytonutrients such as saponins, cardiac glycosides, lactones, flavonoids, alkaloids etc. It also contains an Acetogenin called Annonacin. It also has antibacterial, antiparasitic, and antifungal properties.

HOW IS IT PLANTED?

Sour sop can be propagated through seeds. To have the best trees with the highest production, seeds should be taken from the best fruits. The seeds should be taken from the best fruits, the seeds should be dried, then nurtured into seedlings and transplanted. The best soil for planting Sour sop is a deep, rich, well-drained, semi dry soil, but the Sour sop tree can be and is commonly grown in sandy soil.

BENEFITS OF SOUR SOP

Sour Sop is very is widely known for its health benefits. Some of them include;

  1. It is highly associated with the treatment of pancreatic, lung and breast cancer and other chronic diseases. It is high in antioxidants , these are compounds that help neutralize harmful compounds called free radicals which can cause damage to the cells.
  2. It stimulates the production of white blood cells because it is rich in vitamin C.
  3. It improves Gastrointestinal health, being rich in vitamin C, it is used for ulcers,. it was used for many years as a natural remedy to Scurvy and dysentery.
  4. The juice from Sour sop fruit can also be used as a diuretic, as it can cleanse the gastrointestinal tract and remove excess toxins and salt from the body.
  1. Relieves respiratory stress, it is a reliable way to reduce phlegm and mucus. 
  2. It treats insomnia
  3. It is good for skin care, the seeds can be grounded in tom powder which can be formulated into a skin astringent to help reduce lines and wrinkles, aging and spots
  4. It controls parasites, bacteria, viruses etc. because of its antioxidants
  5. It enhances the immune system and speeds healing.
  6.  It contains  anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, thus very effective in the treatment of wounds, pains and inflammations
  7. It helps lower blood pressure and blood sugar

SIDE EFFECTS OF SOUR SOP

Sour sop may cause nerve damage and movement problems, especially with long term use. It may also cause serious neuropathy that leads to Parkinson like symptoms, such as tremors or stiff muscles.  If some one has Parkinson disease the use of Sour sop may make their symptoms worse. Sour sop may be toxic to the kidney or liver with repeated use. People should not use sour sop if they have liver or kidney problems. Those considering using sour sop as treatment therapies should first talk to their doctor before usage if they;

  1. Are diabetic or taking sugar control tablets
  2. Are hypertensive or using blood pressure medications
  3. Are pregnant
  4. Are breastfeeding

         Moderation is advised always.

References

  1. Ngozi Okoye, Soursop ,  the Magic Fruit, December 2018, <https;/www.pharmanewsonline.com/soursop-magic-fruit. Last accessed June 30, 2020
  2.  Noal Farm, Awesome Sour sop Fruit Farm and Harvest-Sour sop Cultivation Agriculture Technology Published on December 21, 2019, https://google/AECnmd
  3. Rachael, ibid
  4. Natural Remedies, 9 Surprising Benefits of Sour Sop, August 31,2018,,<https:healthynewsarticles.com
  5. ibid
  6. ibid
  7. Natural Remedies, ibid
  8. ibid
  9. Debra Rose, ‘What is gravity and how is it used”, 2017,<https:www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/>[accessed 30th June 2020]