Soursop Touted As Anti-Cancer Superfruit

A newfound interest is emerging around a little-known, fleshy green fruit native to South and Central America, long used in traditional medicine for its antibacterial properties and potential cancer-fighting effects, New Atlas reporter Bronwyn Thompson wrote.

The fruit, or "guyabano" in the Philippines, often referred to as “graviola” in supplement form, has been used in traditional medicine for centuries.

Soursop (Annona muricata), also known as “guyabano” in the Philippines, is a flowering tree indigenous to Central and South America. It is now cultivated in the Pacific Islands, West Africa, and Southeast Asia.

The fruit, often referred to as “graviola” in supplement form, has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, with applications ranging from managing diabetes to treating infections and even cancer.

In the past year, interest in soursop has surged, particularly within the Western wellness community, which has increasingly sought alternative medicines rooted in traditional therapies.

However, the scientific community remains divided over its purported health benefits.

While many experts agree that further research is needed, past studies have identified promising medicinal properties. A 2015 review published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences noted:

“Among all former studies on this plant, the most promising activities are its anticancer, antiparasitic, and insecticidal properties.

Further investigations into the biochemical and physiological functions of its active compounds—and the detailed mechanisms behind these effects—are essential for the development of pharmaceutical and agricultural products.”

The fruit is rich in bioactive compounds, including acetogenins, alkaloids, flavonoids, and essential vitamins, which are generally considered beneficial for their cytotoxic effects, meaning they may help kill cancer cells.

Acetogenins have been linked to both cancer treatment and potential cancer prevention.

However, there are concerns as well. One key acetogenin, annonacin, has been associated with an increased risk of Parkinson’s disease and other neurodegenerative conditions. As research continues, experts caution against overreliance on unproven claims while acknowledging the fruit’s promising therapeutic potential.