Superfood Graviola Leaf: Benefits and Side Effects

Taken in a powder or juice form, Graviola is a small evergreen tree.

The leaves, fruit, seeds, and stem are used to make medicine for many different ailments. It is found in India, Malaysia, and other tropical climates.

It also goes by names such as:

❧ guanábana (Spanish)
❧ graviola (Portuguese)
❧ Brazilian pawpaw
❧ guyabano
❧ corossolier
❧ guanavana
❧ toge-banreisi
❧ durian benggala
❧ nangka blanda
❧ sirsak
❧ nangka londa

In Malayalam, it is called mullaatha , literally thorny custard apple. The other lesser known Indian names are shul-ram-fal and hanuman fal.

The Graviola tree is a small tree, about 9 to 18 feet tall and contains many chemicals that may be active against cancer, as well as disease-causing agents such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites.

Many say that the graviola leaf powder is a true miracle from the rain forests used traditionally to ward off illness and disease.

 Here is an overview of the many uses of Graviola:

✎ Cancer.

There is evidence that some of the chemicals in Graviola may keep cancer cells from removing anticancer drugs.

✎ Bacterial infections.
✎ Parasitic infections.
✎ Coughs.
✎ Inflammation of the nose and throat.
✎ Herpes.
✎ An infection caused by sand fleas.
✎ Helps with relaxation.
✎ May induce vomiting.
✎ Helps with elimination and emptying of the bowels.
✎ It has antiviral, antibacterial and anti-parasitic qualities.
✎ Has the ability to reduce feelings of anxiety and depression.
✎ Supports healthy blood pressure levels.

Graviola Side Effects:

✎ People who should not use Graviola are those with heart problems.
✎ Pregnant women should not use Graviola as it can cause premature uterine contractions and this could be dangerous to her and the baby. Women who are breastfeeding should not use Graviola.
✎ If people have any nerve function condition such as Parkinson’s disease, taking Graviola may make the condition get worse.
✎ Taking an overdose of Graviola may also cause fatigue.
✎ Always talk to your healthcare professional before starting any supplement, including Graviola.

Sources: znaturalfoods.com, health.howstuffworks.com