Abstract: Traditional medicinal plants gained an enormous attention owing to the therapeutic effects as an alternative medicine in the treatment of various diseases. Annona muricata, also known as Graviola has traditionally been consumed to maintain health, but it is now considered for use in treating cancer patients. The objective of this review was to assess the potentials of A. muricata against many diseases. A. muricata particularily leaves, is found to contain biologically active constituents. More than 200 chemical compounds have been identified and isolated from this plant. Acetogenins are the most important phytoconstitutent. A. muricata, have been reported to have positive properties against many diseases including inflammatory associated arthritis, diabetes, hypertension, parasitic infections, and cancer. Animal and human in vivo and in vitro studies were conducted to evaluate the effects of A. muricata leaves extract. A. muricata has antiproliferative and cytotoxic impacts on cancer cells, probably through apoptosis induction. Cancer remains the number one killer in the Western nations and most treatments for the disease rely on the use of chemotherapy that utilizes drugs that are also toxic against normal healthy cells. Thus, an alternative approach to anti-cancer therapies should involve the determination of novel drug targets that must be highly effective and specific against cancer development and growth, non-toxic to the host cells and affordable for the patients. However, these extracts and isolated compounds need to be further investigated to define the magnitude of the effects, optimal dosage, long-term safety, and possible side effects. Additionally, clinical studies are necessary to support the therapeutic potential of this plant.
Keywords: Annona muricata, Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry, Pharmacological Activities.
Title: Annona muricata (Graviola): A Review of Its Traditional Uses and Pharmacological Activities
Author: Suzan B. Abdu
International Journal of Life Sciences Research
ISSN 2348-313X (Print), ISSN 2348-3148 (online)
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