7 Benefits and side effects of soursop tea

It is remarkable how the fruits that are often overlooked have amazing benefits you never would have imagined. In the world of tea, particularly soursop tea, made from the leaves of soursop plants, soursop tea has become widely known for its benefits. Here are a few benefits it offers.

What is soursop tea?

Soursop tea is an infusion made from the leaves of the soursop plant, scientifically known as Annona muricata. Also referred to as graviola or guanabana, soursop is a tropical fruit native to Central and South America, as well as parts of the Caribbean and Africa.

The leaves of the soursop tree are commonly used to prepare a flavourful and aromatic tea that has gained popularity for its potential health benefits.

What does soursop tea taste like?

Soursop tea has a unique and distinctive taste that is often described as a blend of fruity, tangy, and herbal flavours.

Does Soursop Tea Contain Caffeine?

No, soursop tea is naturally caffeine-free. Caffeine is not present in the soursop leaves, which are used to make the tea.

As a result, soursop tea is a suitable option for individuals who are sensitive to caffeine or those who prefer to avoid it altogether.

It can be enjoyed at any time of the day without concerns about caffeine-related effects, such as sleep disturbances or increased heart rate.

Benefits of Soursop Tea

1. May Aid in Weight Loss

While not a direct weight loss solution, the diuretic properties of soursop tea may assist in eliminating excess fluids and supporting a healthy fluid balance.

But a 2019 study analysed the effects of soursop leaf tea on weight loss. The extracts of graviola leaves were given to obese mice for 12 weeks. Results showed that soursop tea can help in reducing body weight.

2. Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Soursop tea is thought to possess anti-inflammatory properties that could potentially help reduce inflammation and alleviate related symptoms.

3. May Protect Heart Health

Your heart health can be enhanced by drinking soursop tea. Numerous studies suggest that soursop leaves may aid in reducing levels of LDL, or bad cholesterol, and triglycerides.

They also assist in lowering the buildup of fat in the body, which lowers the risk of cardiovascular ailments. According to research, soursop leaf extracts may reduce hypertension.

These extracts may contain alkaloids such as reticulin, anomurine, and other components of essential oils that have been shown to have antihypertensive effects in rats with normal blood pressure.

4. May Help Improve Skin

In traditional medicine, soursop leaves have been used to treat a variety of skin diseases, including abscesses. Additionally, studies demonstrate that it has anti-inflammatory qualities that support healthy skin.

Additionally, there is some evidence showing that soursop-treated wounds had lessened inflammation in the vicinity of the wound and a planned creation of collagen fibres.

5. May Boost The Immune System

The leaves and stems of soursop, according to a study in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, may help strengthen your immune system. It is high in antioxidants, which help hunt down free radicals and lessen the likelihood of oxidative stress in the body.

6. Potential Antimicrobial Effects

Certain compounds in soursop leaves have been studied for their potential antimicrobial properties, which could contribute to inhibiting the growth of harmful microorganisms.

7. Potential Anti-Cancer Properties

Some laboratory studies have indicated that certain compounds found in soursop, such as acetogenins, may have anti-cancer potential, but more research is needed in this area.

Soursop Tea Side Effects

Neurotoxic Effects

Soursop contains annonacin, a natural compound that can be toxic to nerve cells when consumed in excessive amounts. Long-term and excessive consumption of soursop or soursop products has been associated with neurologic symptoms, including movement disorders similar to Parkinson's disease. It's advisable to enjoy soursop and soursop products in moderation.

Liver Health

Certain compounds in soursop may interact with liver enzymes. If you have liver conditions or are taking medications that affect liver function, consult a healthcare provider before consuming soursop tea.

Drug Interactions

Soursop may interact with certain medications, including those for high blood pressure, depression, and blood thinners. Consult a healthcare professional before consuming soursop tea if you're taking any medications.

Pregnancy

Pregnant and breastfeeding individuals should exercise caution when consuming soursop products, including soursop tea. Some compounds in soursop may have uterine stimulant effects, potentially affecting pregnancy. Consult with a healthcare professional before including soursop tea in your diet during these periods.

How to Make Soursop Tea?

Ingredients

● Soursop tea bags

● Water

● Optional: Sweetener (honey, sugar, or another preferred sweetener)

Instructions

Start by bringing water to a boil. You'll need about 1 cup (240 ml) of water per tea bag.

Place a soursop tea bag in a teacup or mug. Pour the boiling water over the teabag.

 Allow the teabag to steep in the hot water for about 5-7 minutes. The exact steeping time may vary based on your taste preferences and the specific brand of tea bags you're using.

After the steeping time is up, carefully remove the tea bag from the cup. You can gently squeeze the tea bag against the side of the cup to extract any remaining flavours.

If desired, add a sweetener like honey or sugar to the tea. Stir well until the sweetener is fully dissolved. Your soursop tea is ready to be enjoyed. You can serve it hot as is or let it cool down and enjoy it over ice for a refreshing iced soursop tea.

If you prefer, you can enhance the flavour of your soursop tea by adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprig of mint.