In this article we will discover the properties and health benefits of Graviola, the fruit of a tropical plant, Annona Muricata.
Graviola, also known as Guanàbana or Corossole, is the fruit of Annona muricata, an evergreen plant native to the Antilles but now widespread in tropical areas of North and South America, especially in the Amazon.
This plant can also be found in southern Florida and northern Australia; its fruit, in fact, finds the optimal conditions to develop in areas with a high level of humidity.
Graviola fruit: characteristics and flavor
Externally this fruit has a green-yellow color with a weight that can reach 4 kilos and a diameter of 20-30 cm; the peel, covered with soft quills, hides a soft, juicy and very sweet pulp.
Its flavor seems to recall a strange combination of strawberry and pineapple with light citrus notes in contrast with a creamy background taste, similar to that of coconut and banana.
It is advisable to consume it as soon as it matures, to avoid its easy perishability: just cut it in half and enjoy it with a teaspoon or use it for the preparation of smoothies.
Graviola nutritional properties
From a nutritional point of view, Graviola is an interesting fruit given the significant quantities of vitamin C, B1 and B2 it contains.
Its antioxidant properties make it a valid ally of the immune system; Furthermore, the substances obtained from this fruit seem to be able to carry out an important anti-inflammatory, analgesic and cytotoxic action.
Serious property for health
Although there are still no large-scale clinical data and the evidence in the scientific reading is purely experimental, Graviola and the substances contained in it could also perform an antitumor function, from a preventive point of view, as indeed several other foods (one above all, turmeric).
Contraindications and side effects
The only contraindications to the prolonged intake of this fruit are aimed at pregnant women and subjects with low blood pressure.
In any case, it is not recommended to consume it in large doses, as it could lead to disorders such as nausea and vomiting.
