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| - Last Updated on May 30, 2024 by Neelam Singh
Quick Take
As per an Instagram post, Soursop leaves are 4000 times stronger than chemotherapy. We did the fact check to term this as false.
The Claim
A post on Instagram shares, Soursop leaves are 4000 times stronger than chemotherapy. It further claims it can also cure hormonal acne within weeks.
Fact Check
What are soursop leaves?
Soursop leaves come from the soursop tree (Annona muricata), a tropical fruit tree native to the American continents. These leaves are traditionally used in herbal medicine and are believed to have various health benefits. Some animal studies show it has potential anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. Studies in rats have also shown that it has potential blood sugar stabilising properties.
And, while you enjoy the fruit, avoid soursop seeds because they contain annonacin, a neurotoxin that has been linked to an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s disease.
What is chemotherapy?
Chemotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses drugs to kill or slow the growth of cancer cells. It can be administered orally or through injections, targeting fast-growing cells in the body. Chemotherapy is often used in combination with other treatments, such as surgery and radiation therapy, to effectively treat cancer.
Do soursop leaves have 4000 times stronger potency than chemotherapy drugs?
No, soursop leaves do not have 4000 times stronger potency than chemotherapy. Chemotherapy drugs are carefully developed and rigorously tested to fight cancer cells. This often involves years of research and numerous clinical trials to ensure their efficacy and safety. To claim that soursop leaves surpass these drugs by such a large margin is extraordinary and requires substantial scientific evidence. However, there are no credible studies directly comparing the potency of soursop leaves to chemotherapy agents. The complexity of cancer treatment and the diverse mechanisms of action of chemotherapy further the doubt that a single ‘natural’ remedy could outperform established medical treatments so dramatically.
Additionally, the potential risks associated with soursop leaf consumption, such as toxicity and side effects, further undermine this claim. It is important for people seeking effective cancer treatments to only trust on evidence-based medicine and consult healthcare professionals. Misleading claims can prevent patients from receiving the proven treatments and may lead to harmful consequences.
What does an expert say about Soursop leaves?
We checked with Dr Ubaid ur Rahman, General Physician, Holy Mission Clinic, New Delhi, for his opinion on the effectiveness of Soursop leaves. He says, “Don’t fall for the myth that soursop leaves are 4000 times stronger than chemotherapy. It’s just not true. While soursop fruit is tasty and nutritious, going overboard with its leaves or fruit can lead to problems like nausea, nerve issues, and even harm to your liver or kidneys. Especially if you’re pregnant, have young kids, or are on certain medications, it’s important to be careful.”
Dr Rahman further states, “In India, we love our natural remedies, but it’s essential to balance tradition with science. So, if you or someone you love is dealing with cancer, always consult a doctor for the best treatment options. And remember, too much soursop isn’t always a good thing. So, enjoy it in moderation, and take care of your health!”
How is the efficacy of chemotherapy drugs determined in treating cancer?
Chemotherapy remains one of the primary approaches for treating various types of cancer. Its efficacy is assessed through stringent clinical trials and real-world patient outcomes. The effectiveness of chemotherapy is evaluated based on factors such as tumour response rates, progression-free survival, and overall survival rates.
Reputable medical experts and oncologists rely on evidence-based medicine for cancer treatment decisions. Claims suggesting that soursop leaves could outrun chemotherapy in potency by such a large margin is not supported by scientific studies or advocated by medical authorities. Without consensus among experts in the field, such claims remain speculative and lack credibility.
What compounds in soursop leaves are believed to contribute to their supposed potency?
Soursop, also known as Graviola, contains various bioactive compounds, including annonaceous acetogenins, alkaloids, flavonoids, and phenols. Some people claim that these compounds possess strong anti-cancer properties and contribute to soursop leaves’ alleged effectiveness in treating cancer.
While preliminary research has explored the potential anti-cancer effects of certain compounds found in soursop leaves, such as acetogenins, the evidence is far from conclusive. Most studies have been conducted in vitro (in laboratory settings) or on animal models, with limited translation to human clinical trials. Comparing the efficacy of these compounds to established chemotherapy agents requires strong clinical evidence, which is currently lacking.
Are there studies demonstrating the effectiveness of soursop leaves against cancer?
Informal reports and traditional use of soursop leaves in some cultures suggest potential health benefits. But the scientific evidence supporting their efficacy against cancer is inconclusive. Few clinical trials have investigated the therapeutic effects of soursop leaves in cancer patients, and those that exist often suffer from methodological limitations or small sample sizes.
Moreover, the absence of direct comparisons between soursop leaves and chemotherapy in well-designed clinical trials makes it challenging to draw meaningful conclusions about their relative efficacy. Until robust evidence from controlled studies is available, claims of soursop leaves’ superiority over chemotherapy remain unsubstantiated.
What are the potential risks of using soursop leaves as a cancer treatment?
Soursop leaves are popular for being ‘natural’ and perceived safety. But they are not without risks. Reported side effects of soursop consumption include nausea, vomiting, nerve damage, sudden drop in blood pressure and potential toxicity to the liver and kidneys. Soursop fruit is safe and nutritious to eat, but its seeds are toxic and should be avoided. Tea made from soursop leaves should not be consumed during pregnancy, by small children, or for extended periods. Also, patients taking anti-diabetic or antihypertensive medicines should be careful when using soursop supplements due to their blood glucose and blood pressure-lowering effects. Furthermore, the safety of long-term or high-dose soursop leaf consumption has not been adequately studied.
In contrast, chemotherapy drugs come with well-documented side effects. For instance, hair loss, nausea, fatigue, and immunosuppression. However, these drugs are administered under expert supervision, with dosages carefully calibrated to maximise benefit while minimising adverse effects.
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