Annona muricata

Family: Annonaceae

Common name: Soursop

Annona muricata, commonly known as soursop, is a broadleaf, flowering, evergreen tree that produces large, edible fruits. This tree typically grows to a height of 5–8 meters and has an open, roundish canopy with large, glossy, dark green leaves. The tree’s fruits are large, heart-shaped, and green when unripe.

When ripe, the fruit’s pulp is creamy, acidic, and delicately flavored. It is commonly eaten as a dessert fruit, but it can also be used to make drinks, ice creams, and sherbets. The fruit can be eaten fresh or strained to make custards, ice creams, and beverages.
Soursop has gained attention for its potential medicinal properties, with its leaves being promoted as an alternative cancer treatment. Often referred to as the “cancer killer,” the leaves are traditionally used in medicine for cancer treatment. Research has supported several of its medicinal benefits, including anticancer, anticonvulsant, anti-arthritic, antiparasitic, antimalarial, hepatoprotective, and antidiabetic activities. These properties make it a valuable plant in traditional medicine for treating a variety of conditions.