Oncology: A fruit that “selectively” kills cancer

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Despite ongoing efforts to fight cancer this disease remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Several treatments, including chemotherapy, have improved survival rates. One fruit has shown effects in cancer prevention.

The effects of diet on cancer remain largely understudied, but early research suggests that one fruit with purported healing properties may slow the spread of the disease. Other studies show that it may improve the effectiveness of conventional treatments or selectively kill several types of cancer cells.

Graviola comes from trees in the rainforests of Africa, South America and Southeast Asia, where it is commonly eaten. The flesh of the fruit is widely used in juices and smoothies.

The fruit is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, which are known to strengthen immunity. Research shows that it strengthens the immune system, improving the ability to defend against pathogens and helping to destroy free radicals.

Some studies have looked at the fruit's effects on cancer, suggesting that it may help selectively kill malignant cells.

The study found that two compounds extracted from the seeds showed effects comparable to Adriamycin, a drug widely used in chemotherapy.

“A compound in the plant selectively destroys colon cancer cells with a powerful 10,000 times higher than that of Adriamycin. graviola leaf extracts kill cancer cells in at least six types of cancer and are particularly effective against prostate and pancreatic cancer cells.”

However, the side effects reported in connection with the fruit have worried scientists, as some studies have shown , that chemicals in the fruit can cause nerve changes and movement disorders.

Nerve changes can cause symptoms similar to Parkinson's disease.

With no evidence of the fruit's safety and efficacy in humans, experts advised not to use it to prevent cancer.