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The soursop tree (Annona muricata), also known as graviola, is a tree found in most Creole gardens in Martinique. It is very popular for its fruit, the soursop, whose white flesh is sweet and juicy. But its flavor and texture are not its only properties. Like all trees, the leaves, branches, and roots have virtues that can differ. However, in all these parts we find relaxing and sedative properties.

The Benefits

The leaves and fruits contain sedative active compounds such as alkaloids such as anonaine, which acts on the central nervous system to promote relaxation and induce sleep and fatty acids such as oleic acid which can have a calming effect. These are the reasons why soursop is used in traditional medicine to reduce stress and anxiety. Not to mention the muscle relaxant properties of the fruits and leaves that help relax the muscles. All these virtues make the soursop leaf the ideal candidate for an infusion that will help you get back to sleep. In the West Indian tradition, parents sometimes gave their children a bath of soursop leaf to calm them before bedtime.

Attention

However, a study by a Guadeloupean researcher shows that consuming leaves or fruits daily over several years could cause a serious form of Parkinson's disease. It is therefore important to use them in moderation and to seek the advice of your doctor.