Soursop: An Exploration of Tradition, Nutrients, and Scientific Interest

Last updated: May 28, 2025

Soursop, also known by names such as graviola, guanábana, or soursop, is a tree native to tropical regions. The fruit and leaves have long been used in various cultures. The fruit is known for its unique, refreshing taste, and the leaves are often used to make tea.

This article delves deeper into what soursop is, how it is traditionally used, and the scientific interest in its components, all within the framework of EU legislation.

An important notice regarding our information provision

Previously, in this article, we shared more extensive information about the traditionally attributed and potentially beneficial properties of soursop. However, due to strict EU legislation (specifically Regulation (EC) No. 1924/2006) concerning nutrition and health claims for foodstuffs, we have been obliged to adjust our communication on this matter.

This legislation does not permit us to make statements about possible health benefits that have not been officially assessed and approved for soursop by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). We understand this may raise questions, especially given the rich history of traditional use and existing scientific interest.

Should you be interested in the broader context and the many aspects of soursop highlighted in traditional practices and independent research, we strongly encourage you to conduct your own further research through reliable scientific databases, publications, and other reputable sources. Our current focus is on providing factual information that is fully compliant with current regulations.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is solely intended for informational purposes and should not be construed as medical advice. Our products are foodstuffs and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for health complaints or before making changes to your diet or lifestyle.

What is soursop?

Soursop, scientifically known as Annona muricata, is the fruit of an evergreen tree native to the tropical regions of the Americas and the Caribbean. The tree is cultivated worldwide in tropical and subtropical climates, including parts of Asia and Africa.

The fruit itself is typically green, prickly on the outside, and can be oval-shaped, reaching up to 30 centimeters in length and weighing up to approximately 6.8 kilograms. The flesh is white, juicy, and aromatic, with a fibrous texture and inedible black seeds. The taste is often described as a complex mix, reminiscent of pineapple, strawberry, and apple, with sour citrus notes and a creamy, banana-like undertone. This slightly sour taste upon ripening has given the fruit its name “soursop” (or “zuurzak” in Dutch, meaning “sour bag”). The pulp is widely used in smoothies, juices, sorbets, and confectionery.

Besides the fruit, the leaves of the soursop tree are also used. After harvesting, they are often dried to make tea. The main cultivation areas for soursop are Suriname, Mexico, Peru, Brazil, Ecuador, Guatemala, and Haiti.

In various cultures, the leaves and other parts of the tree have a long history of traditional use. These applications are often based on centuries-old practices and traditions within those specific communities.

What is soursop tea?

Soursop tea, also called graviola tea, soursop tea, or guanábana tea, is an herbal tea prepared by steeping the dried leaves of the soursop tree (Annona muricata) in hot water.

The leaves naturally contain various plant compounds, including flavonoids, phytosterols, and tannins, which contribute to the tea’s characteristics. There is worldwide scientific interest in the properties of these and other compounds in soursop leaves.

Soursop tea is naturally caffeine-free, as it does not come from the Camellia sinensis plant (the plant from which black, green, and white teas are made). This makes it a suitable beverage for people who want to avoid caffeine, for example, in the evening.

Exploring the properties of soursop

The soursop fruit and leaves have been valued for centuries in traditional cultures. Recent scientific interest focuses on its nutritional composition and the presence of various bioactive compounds. However, it is crucial to emphasize that research into these compounds is often in its early stages (e.g., laboratory or animal studies) and that there are no approved health claims for soursop or soursop products within the EU regarding specific health effects, unless it is an approved claim for a specific, present nutrient.

Below, we highlight some aspects that are being investigated in scientific literature:

Presence of nutrients and antioxidants

Soursop fruit is a source of certain nutrients. For example, it contains vitamin C. Vitamin C is a well-known antioxidant and contributes to the normal functioning of the immune system and the protection of cells against oxidative damage. The leaves also contain various polyphenols and other compounds known for their antioxidant properties in laboratory studies. Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals in the body.

Scientific interest in bioactive compounds and their potential role

Scientific research, mainly in vitro (in test tubes) and in animal models, has drawn attention to various bioactive compounds in soursop, particularly in the leaves. These include acetogenins.

• Research on cellular processes: Laboratory studies have examined the influence of soursop leaf extracts and isolated compounds (such as acetogenins) on various cellular processes, including cell growth and division, and inflammatory mechanisms (Suhail P. et al., 2024). Some studies suggest these compounds are of research interest due to their interactions with cells in controlled laboratory settings.
  
  
• Research on blood pressure regulation: Some animal studies have investigated the effects of soursop extracts on blood pressure (Nwokocha C.R. et al., 2012). The mechanisms behind this are not yet fully understood, and human studies are limited.
  
  
• Research on microorganisms: Soursop extracts have been studied in laboratories for their activity against certain bacteria, fungi, and parasites (Edet U.O. et al., 2022). These results were obtained in vitro, and their relevance to human consumption is unclear.

Important nuance: It is crucial to emphasize that these research findings, while interesting from a scientific perspective, are primarily derived from in vitro and animal studies. These findings cannot be directly extrapolated to effects in humans after consuming soursop fruit or tea. More large-scale human research is needed to establish any effects and long-term safety. Within the EU, there are no approved health claims that support these research areas for soursop products.

General observations in research

Some animal studies have looked at the influence of soursop extracts on body weight and glucose metabolism, and on parameters related to cardiovascular health, such as cholesterol levels (Sasso S. et al., 2019, Son Y. et al., 2021). Again, this is preliminary research and does not form a basis for health claims in humans.

Laboratory research has also investigated the role of soursop extracts in processes such as collagen formation and wound healing in animals (Moghadamtousi S.Z. et al., 2015).

Disclaimer: The scientific interest and research areas described above do not imply any health benefits or medicinal effects of our soursop products. Our products are sold as food and are not intended for the treatment, cure, or prevention of diseases.

General considerations regarding consumption

Although soursop is considered safe by many for normal culinary consumption (Chan W.J.J. et al., 2020), it is good to consider a few points:

Potential points of attention for consumption: A review study of toxicity tests showed that soursop leaf extract was generally well tolerated in animal studies, although one study reported behavioral changes in mice at a very high oral dose (4000 mg/kg) (Somsak V. et al., 2016). Some animal studies have examined effects on liver function with long-term exposure to high doses, with varying results; most studies reported no negative effects or even protective effects, while a single study suggested potentially adverse effects. More research is needed to determine its relevance to human consumption of normal amounts of tea or fruit.

Side effects sometimes mentioned (often with high intake):

• Drowsiness: Some people experience a relaxing or slightly drowsy feeling after drinking soursop tea, possibly due to its natural, relaxing compounds.
  
  
• Nausea: With high intake or in individuals with a sensitive stomach, nausea may occur.

For whom is consumption possibly discouraged or requires caution?

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women: Due to insufficient research on the effects on the fetus or baby, consumption of soursop (leaf) products is often discouraged during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
  
  
• People with low blood pressure: Since some studies suggest that soursop may affect blood pressure, people with low blood pressure or those taking blood pressure medication should be cautious and ideally consult a doctor.
  
  
• People with liver or kidney problems: Given the limited data on long-term effects, people with existing liver or kidney problems are advised to be cautious and seek medical advice.

It is always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before adding new foods or supplements, including soursop products, to your diet, especially if you have existing health problems or are taking medication.

Conclusion

Soursop is an intriguing tropical fruit, and its leaves are used for an aromatic tea. It has a rich history of traditional use in various cultures and is a subject of scientific interest due to its nutrients and bioactive compounds.

Although preliminary research in laboratories and on animals has suggested some interesting biological activities of soursop extracts and compounds, it is essential to understand that these findings cannot be directly translated into health effects in humans. There are no EU-approved health claims for soursop that endorse specific health benefits, other than any claims related to specific, present vitamins or minerals (such as vitamin C, if relevant).

Enjoy soursop and soursop tea as part of a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. For specific health questions or concerns, always consult a qualified healthcare provider.

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