Is soursop good for wound healing?

December 16, 2025 •

4 min read

For centuries, traditional healers have used parts of the soursop tree, and modern animal studies and in vitro research have provided strong evidence suggesting that certain properties of soursop are indeed good for wound healing.

Quick Summary

Recent research confirms that soursop extract possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. These bioactive compounds accelerate tissue repair and combat infections, supporting its traditional use for wound healing.

Key Points

Antioxidant Defense: Soursop leaves are rich in antioxidants that protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, supporting the healing process.
Reduces Inflammation: Bioactive compounds in soursop have anti-inflammatory effects that can help control excessive swelling, which can delay wound repair.
Fights Infection: In laboratory settings, soursop extracts have demonstrated antimicrobial properties against various bacteria and fungi, helping to prevent wound infection.
Accelerates Tissue Repair: Animal studies show that soursop extract can speed up wound closure by upregulating key regenerative proteins like Hsp70.
Supports Diabetic Wounds: Research suggests that soursop extract may aid in the healing of diabetic ulcers by lowering blood sugar levels and promoting tissue regeneration.
Traditional Topical Use: A history of traditional use as a poultice or compress validates the practice of applying soursop externally for skin conditions.

The Science Behind Soursop and Wound Healing

Soursop, also known as graviola or Annona muricata, is a tropical fruit tree native to the Americas, with a long history of use in traditional medicine. The medicinal properties are not confined to the fruit, but are particularly potent in the leaves and bark. Recent scientific investigations, including in-vitro studies and animal models, have started to validate these traditional uses, particularly for wound care. The therapeutic benefits of soursop are primarily attributed to a rich profile of bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids, acetogenins, and polyphenols. These compounds work synergistically to address multiple stages of the wound healing process.

How Soursop's Properties Aid Repair

Soursop's efficacy in promoting wound healing can be broken down into several key actions:

Antioxidant Effects: The potent antioxidants in soursop leaves, such as flavonoids and phenolics, help to neutralize harmful free radicals that cause oxidative stress. Oxidative stress can damage cells and impede the healing process. By reducing this stress, soursop protects cellular integrity and supports tissue regeneration.
Anti-inflammatory Properties: Inflammation is a crucial part of wound healing, but excessive or chronic inflammation can delay it. Soursop extract contains compounds that exhibit significant anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving activities. In animal studies, soursop extract has been shown to reduce swelling and decrease inflammation, which helps the body proceed more effectively with tissue repair.
Antimicrobial Action: A major risk in any wound is bacterial infection, which can severely complicate the healing process. Soursop extracts have been shown in lab studies to have antimicrobial properties against various bacteria and fungi. This capability helps to prevent and combat infections that could otherwise lead to complications or delayed healing.
Tissue Regeneration: The acceleration of wound closure is a key finding in several studies. Research on rats with excisional wounds demonstrated that topical application of A. muricata leaf extract significantly sped up healing. This is linked to the upregulation of heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70), a protein essential for cell proliferation and cytoprotection during healing.

Traditional Uses and Modern Applications

Historically, various parts of the soursop plant were used topically to treat skin ailments and injuries. The application of mashed leaves as a poultice was a common practice. Today, this tradition is supported by studies showing that extracts of soursop bark and leaves can promote wound contraction and healing when applied topically. For conditions like diabetic foot ulcers, where healing is compromised, soursop leaf extract has also shown promise in animal studies by lowering blood sugar and accelerating wound healing.

Common Preparations of Soursop for Topical Use

Poultice: Mashing fresh soursop leaves and applying the paste directly to the wound area, secured with a bandage.
Extracts and Oils: Infusing dried leaves into a carrier oil (like coconut or olive oil) can create a healing salve or oil that is easier to apply. Soursop extract oil, in particular, is noted for its ability to help with skin issues like acne and scars due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Decoction/Tea: Boiling soursop leaves in water creates a decoction that can be used to wash a wound or soaked in a cloth to create a compress. This also allows for internal consumption to boost overall immunity.

Soursop vs. Conventional Wound Treatments


Feature	Soursop Extract (Topical)	Conventional Treatments (e.g., Ointments)
Mode of Action	Natural bioactive compounds provide multi-faceted action: antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and tissue regeneration via Hsp70 upregulation.	Typically focus on one or two actions, such as preventing bacterial growth (antibiotics) or reducing inflammation (corticosteroids).
Composition	Complex mix of natural phytochemicals, including flavonoids and acetogenins.	Synthetic chemicals and formulated compounds.
Potential Side Effects	Generally considered safe for topical use, though high oral doses of fruit/leaf tea may have neurotoxic concerns. Allergic reactions are possible.	Potential for adverse reactions, antibiotic resistance, and skin irritation.
Application	Traditionally applied as a poultice, tea wash, or infused oil.	Pre-packaged ointments, creams, or sprays.
Scientific Evidence	Supported by animal and in-vitro studies demonstrating accelerated healing and key biological activities.	Backed by extensive human clinical trials and regulated for medical use.

Conclusion

Scientific research, largely based on animal and in-vitro studies, indicates that soursop possesses properties that are beneficial for wound healing. Its rich composition of antioxidants, anti-inflammatory agents, and antimicrobials works to protect cells from damage, manage inflammation, fight infection, and promote tissue regeneration. While this provides promising support for its traditional use as a topical remedy, it is important to remember that these findings primarily come from non-human studies. As with any herbal treatment, soursop should be used with caution, and severe or infected wounds should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional. Soursop represents a powerful natural resource, but it should not be considered a replacement for established medical care. For further research on the pharmacological activities of soursop, one can consult studies such as the one available at the National Institutes of Health.

Limitations and Cautions

Despite the promising results, more robust human clinical trials are necessary to fully understand the efficacy and optimal dosages for soursop in wound healing. Furthermore, the compounds in the plant, specifically acetogenins in high concentrations, can be neurotoxic and have been linked to movement disorders. This is particularly a risk with high oral consumption and not typically a concern with external application, but it warrants caution. Individuals should consult with a doctor before using soursop remedies, especially if pregnant, on medication for diabetes or hypertension, or treating chronic conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Historically, mashed or boiled soursop leaves have been applied directly to wounds as a poultice. While traditional use supports this, it is recommended to wash the leaves thoroughly first. For severe or infected wounds, consulting a healthcare professional is crucial.

Primarily, the leaves and bark of the soursop tree are used for their medicinal properties. Extracts from these parts have been studied for their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial benefits.

While the fruit is rich in Vitamin C and other nutrients that support immune function, most scientific studies on wound healing focus on the more concentrated extracts from the leaves and bark. Eating the fruit contributes to overall health but may not have the same direct effect on wound tissue.

When applied topically, soursop is generally considered safe, though allergic reactions can occur. High oral consumption, particularly of leaves and seeds, is associated with a neurotoxin that can cause nerve damage, so supplements or teas should be used cautiously and in consultation with a doctor.

Studies on diabetic rats have shown that soursop extract helps lower blood sugar and improves insulin sensitivity. This, combined with its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, helps accelerate the slow and compromised wound healing process in diabetic patients.

Soursop leaves and extracts can be found at some specialty health food stores, online retailers, or farms specializing in tropical plants. The availability may depend on your geographical location. Some people also grow their own soursop trees.

Yes, lab studies have demonstrated that soursop extracts possess antimicrobial properties effective against various bacteria and fungi, including strains known to cause oral and systemic infections.

No. Soursop should be viewed as a complementary remedy. While research is promising, conventional medicine is supported by extensive clinical trials. Severe, deep, or infected wounds should always be treated under the guidance of a healthcare professional.